Oyetola: Why Africa Must Prioritize Shipping Decarbonization
By Kabir Akintayo
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged African countries to prioritize shipping decarbonization in order to achieve near zero percent greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime industry, a crucial step in addressing climate change.
Oyetola said this at the inaugural of the two-day African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonization, organized by his ministry in collaboration with the UCL Energy Institute and the Bartlett School of Energy, Environment, and Resources, on Monday in Abuja.
The summit, which is being held at the Transcorp Hilton from March 17 to 18, 2025, brought together key industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss the future of sustainable shipping in Africa.
In his keynote address, Oyetola emphasized the importance of Africa’s active involvement in shaping the future of its maritime sector. “Today, we gather not just to discuss challenges, but to forge solutions that will propel Africa towards a sustainable and prosperous blue economy,” he said.
Highlighting the global shipping industry’s critical transition, the Minister underscored the urgency of decarbonization, particularly as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) prepares to finalize policies aimed at reducing shipping-related GHG emissions.
“Africa, along with most developing countries, will be most impacted by the energy transition to near-zero emissions,” Oyetola noted, pointing out the potential economic strain from rising transport costs, particularly given the continent’s minimal contribution to the global fleet.
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“Reducing GHG emissions from shipping is not just an environmental necessity, but an economic imperative,” Oyetola added, calling on Africa to ensure its interests are represented in international policy negotiations.
The former governor of Osun State also called for a just and equitable transition, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by African nations.
“While we recognize the need for ambitious climate action, we must also consider the challenges of energy poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to technology and capital,” he said.
Oyetola further emphasized that funds generated from the transition should be reinvested into African maritime infrastructure, alternative fuel research, and workforce training. “It is crucial that we create equitable policy frameworks to ensure that no African nation is left behind in this process,” he stressed.
In his welcome address, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General and CEO of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), echoed the urgency of addressing shipping emissions, which contribute to approximately 3% of global GHG emissions.
“The environmental concerns arising from these emissions have created a sense of urgency, driving the world to focus on shipping decarbonization—and Africa must not be left behind. By collectively engaging in thoughtful discussions and collaboration, we can forge greater continental cohesiveness and build robust support for our climate change policy goals,” Mobereola stated.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, also delivered a goodwill message, outlining the Nigerian Navy’s efforts in shipping decarbonization. “In an effort to move towards alternative methods, we have converted some of our small diesel boats to electric. This is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s five-point decarbonization agenda,” he said.
Other dignitaries present at the summit included the Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnanji, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Hon. Wasiu Eshinlokun.
