Abuja: Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, emphasized the importance of Africa’s contributions in shaping global shipping policies, noting that 90 per cent of the continent’s trade is seaborne. This statement was made during the African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonisation held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the two-day summit was organized by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in collaboration with the Bartlett Energy Institute of University College London (UCL). The event focused on the future of Africa’s maritime sector and its role in the global decarbonisation of shipping. Oyetola highlighted that although Africa’s contribution to the global fleet is below two per cent, the continent’s reliance on imports necessitates its active participation in international shipping policy discussions.
Oyetola stressed the importance of Africa’s involvement in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to ensure that the continent’s economic interests are represented. The summit, which brought together leaders, policymakers, and industry practitioners, served as a platform for strengthening collaborations between African nations and international partners.
Oyetola further elaborated on the opportunity for Africa, as a continent with 38 coastal nations, to leverage its geographical advantage and renewable energy potential to lead in green shipping. He called for partnerships that align with Africa’s development needs, advocating for investments that promote sustainability and economic growth. He also emphasized the need for equitable decarbonisation efforts to prevent any African nation from being left behind.
Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), noted that the shipping industry contributes about three per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating Africa’s active participation in global decarbonisation efforts. He linked these efforts to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 on Climate Action.
Dr Harry Conway, Permanent Representative of Liberia to the IMO, reiterated the necessity of Africa’s involvement in IMO policy-making, given that a significant portion of the continent’s trade is seaborne. Despite Africa representing only 25 per cent of the IMO’s membership, its contributions are crucial for shaping policies that affect its shipping industry.
Dr Dola Oluleye, Principal Investigator of the LEAP project at UCL, emphasized that Africa must transition from being a passive recipient to an active participant in global policy-making, advocating for sustainable and technologically advanced solutions for its maritime industry.
Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, stressed the need for a gradual transition towards decarbonising greenhouse gas emissions in line with international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement. He revealed plans by the Nigerian Navy to adopt hybrid solutions, such as converting diesel-powered boats to electric engines, to reduce carbon emissions.