As global leaders prepare to converge on Mombasa, Kenya, for the 11th Our Ocean Conference, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has emphasized that stronger international collaboration, reliable emissions data, technology transfer, and climate finance will be critical to achieving net-zero emissions in the global maritime sector.
The agency noted that the transition to a greener and more sustainable shipping industry requires coordinated action among governments, maritime regulators, industry stakeholders, financial institutions, and development partners. According to NIMASA, collective commitment will be essential in addressing the environmental challenges facing the maritime industry while ensuring continued growth in global trade and shipping activities.
Furthermore, the agency stressed that developing countries must be adequately supported through access to technology, funding, and technical expertise to participate effectively in the global decarbonisation agenda.
Reliable Emissions Data Essential for Effective Action
NIMASA highlighted the importance of accurate and reliable emissions data in shaping policies and strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the maritime industry.
The agency explained that comprehensive data collection and monitoring systems enable policymakers and industry operators to identify emission sources, track progress, and implement targeted measures that support environmental sustainability.
Moreover, improved data transparency strengthens accountability while helping stakeholders make informed decisions regarding investments in cleaner technologies and operational improvements.
Effective emissions reporting, NIMASA noted, remains a critical component of achieving global climate objectives.
Technology Transfer Will Accelerate Maritime Transformation
The agency emphasized that access to modern technologies will play a decisive role in helping developing nations transition toward low-carbon shipping operations.
Innovations such as alternative fuels, energy-efficient vessel designs, digital monitoring systems, smart port infrastructure, and cleaner propulsion technologies have the potential to significantly reduce emissions across the maritime value chain.
Furthermore, stronger technology transfer partnerships can help bridge existing knowledge gaps while enabling maritime administrations and industry operators to adopt globally recognized environmental best practices.
Such collaboration is expected to strengthen the capacity of emerging maritime economies to meet future sustainability requirements.
Climate Finance Remains Critical
NIMASA also identified climate finance as a major requirement for achieving meaningful progress toward net-zero emissions in the maritime sector.
The agency observed that transitioning to cleaner technologies and sustainable shipping practices requires substantial investment, particularly for developing countries that face resource constraints.
Access to climate funding, concessional financing, and international support mechanisms can help accelerate infrastructure development, fleet modernization, research initiatives, and environmental innovation projects.
Moreover, increased financial support will enable maritime stakeholders to implement long-term sustainability strategies without compromising economic growth and trade competitiveness.
Africa Must Play an Active Role in Maritime Decarbonisation
The agency stressed that African nations possess significant maritime potential and must actively participate in global discussions concerning the future of sustainable shipping.
By strengthening regional cooperation, investing in capacity development, and embracing innovation, African countries can position themselves as important contributors to global maritime sustainability efforts.
Furthermore, coordinated regional action can enhance regulatory harmonization, improve environmental compliance, and create opportunities for green economic growth across the continent’s maritime sector.
NIMASA emphasized that Africa’s voice remains essential in shaping equitable and inclusive climate policies for the shipping industry.
Towards a Sustainable Maritime Future
As preparations continue for the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, NIMASA reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, maritime innovation, and responsible ocean governance.
The agency expressed confidence that stronger international partnerships, improved access to technology, reliable emissions data, and increased climate finance will accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions while ensuring the continued growth of global maritime trade.
By embracing collaboration and innovation, the maritime industry can build a cleaner, more resilient, and more sustainable future that balances economic development with environmental responsibility, benefiting both present and future generations.
