- The Federal Government is promoting alternative energy for shipping to cut emissions and align with global climate goals.
- Officials stressed Africa’s role in shaping global policies, calling for fair energy transition, clean energy hubs, and partnerships to support maritime trade and emission reduction.
The federal government has urged the use of alternative energy in shipping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Africa’s maritime industry. This move supports global efforts to tackle climate change.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced this in Abuja while opening the African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonisation. The two-day event, themed “Ensuring a Just and Equitable Decarbonisation for Africa,” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts.
“Trade is vital to our position in the world,” Oyetola said. “With over 90% of global trade depending on maritime transport, cutting GHG emissions from shipping is not just an environmental need but an economic necessity.”
He warned that shifting to low-emission energy sources could increase transport costs, especially for Africa. “Our contribution to the global fleet is less than 2%,” he said. “Yet, we depend heavily on imports, so we must engage in this transition.”
As the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) develops stricter decarbonisation policies, Oyetola called on Africa to ensure its voice is heard. He stressed that Africa’s 38 coastal nations should see the energy shift as an opportunity to develop ports as industrial hubs with support from global partners.
“The transition must be fair and inclusive,” he said. “No African country should be left behind.”
Oyetola also highlighted challenges such as limited access to technology, funding shortages, energy poverty, and food insecurity. He urged a balanced approach based on the Common but Differentiated Responsibilities principle to ensure support for developing economies.
Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, said the shipping industry contributes about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. “The urgency of this issue is driving the world towards shipping decarbonisation—Africa must not be left out,” he stated.
Mobereola added that reducing emissions aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action). He said the summit aimed to promote sustainable maritime development through knowledge-sharing and best practices.
Dr Harry Conway, Liberia’s Representative to the IMO, stressed Africa’s reliance on maritime trade. “You cannot trade without using a vessel,” he said. “80% of global trade happens by sea, and Africa depends on it for 90% of its trade.” He urged African nations to be more involved in IMO decision-making.
Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff, promised military support for shipping decarbonisation. He praised African countries for working together and assured the Navy’s cooperation with the Ministry.
The summit gathered key stakeholders, including representatives from Kenya, the Bartlett Energy Institute (University College London), the Federal Ministries of Innovation, Science and Technology, Trade and Investment, and members of the National Assembly.