Nigeria pushes for fair net-zero shipping transition

Nigeria has called for fairness, equity and stronger support mechanisms for developing countries in the global drive toward net-zero emissions in international shipping. The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made the appeal during the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) of the International Maritime Organization held in […]

Nigeria has called for fairness, equity and stronger support mechanisms for developing countries in the global drive toward net-zero emissions in international shipping.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made the appeal during the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) of the International Maritime Organization held in London.

Oyetola said Nigeria supports global decarbonisation efforts in the maritime sector but stressed that the transition framework must reflect the economic realities and developmental needs of emerging economies.

He noted that achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 should align with global sustainable development goals and avoid placing disproportionate burdens on developing nations.

The minister also used the sidelines of the meeting to hold strategic engagements with the Secretary-General of the IMO, Arsenio Dominguez, and the President of Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority, Fawaz Al Sehali.

According to the statement, signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in maritime security, capacity building, blue economy development and promoting an inclusive energy transition within the global maritime industry.

Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to constructive engagement with the IMO, particularly in advancing maritime safety, institutional development and sustainable blue economy initiatives.

Dominguez commended Nigeria’s growing role in maritime governance and appreciated the hospitality extended to him during his recent visit to Nigeria, where he met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He also praised Nigeria’s leadership in improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, noting significant progress in combating piracy and enhancing regional coordination.

The IMO Secretary-General said Nigeria’s achievements in maritime security could serve as a model for other regions facing similar threats.

The meeting further highlighted Nigeria’s expanding role within the IMO Council, ongoing port modernisation and digitalisation reforms, as well as efforts to strengthen human capital development in line with international maritime standards.

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia also reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral maritime cooperation and mutual support within the IMO framework.