By Barbara Nwaiwu
The Nigerian government has called for fairness, equity, and adequate support for developing economies in the global push toward net-zero emissions in international shipping.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made the call on Monday, during the 84th Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) held in London.
Oyetola stated that while Nigeria supports the goal of achieving net zero emissions in the shipping industry by 2050, the transition must not place a heavy burden on emerging economies.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s support for decarbonisation efforts is dependent on frameworks that reflect the economic realities and development needs of countries in the Global South.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the minister noted that efforts to achieve net zero emissions must align with broader sustainable development goals (SDGs).
At the meeting, Oyetola held discussions with the Secretary-General of the IMO, Arsenio Dominguez, and the President of Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority, Fawaz Al Sehali, focusing on strengthening cooperation across key maritime priorities.
The talks covered areas such as maritime security, capacity building, blue economy development, and the need for a fair and inclusive energy transition within the global shipping industry.
Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a mutually beneficial partnership with the IMO, anchored on shared goals including maritime safety, institutional capacity development, and sustainable blue economy growth.
In response, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez commended Nigeria’s commitment to maritime governance and acknowledged progress in enhancing security in the Gulf of Guinea, particularly in reducing piracy and improving regional coordination.
He added that Nigeria’s experience in maritime security provides valuable lessons for other regions, while also noting the country’s growing role within the IMO Council and ongoing reforms in port modernisation and digitalisation.