Nigeria has urged the global maritime community to ensure fairness, equity, and stronger support for developing economies in shipping’s transition to net-zero emissions.

The call came during the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee, organised by the International Maritime Organisation in London.

Marine and blue economy minister Adegboyega Oyetola led the country’s delegation at the high-level gathering, according to a statement on Sunday.

Mr Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for global decarbonisation efforts within international shipping and maritime operations. He, however, stressed that climate frameworks must recognise the economic circumstances and development priorities of emerging economies.

“Decarbonisation must not become an additional burden on developing countries already confronting economic and infrastructure limitations,” the minister said.

He maintained that any transition plan must promote inclusion, fairness, and balanced responsibility among maritime nations.

Mr Oyetola said the global push toward net-zero emissions by 2050 must align with broader sustainable development objectives. According to him, environmental progress should not undermine economic growth, trade competitiveness, or social stability in developing states.

“Climate ambition must go hand in hand with development realities and shared global responsibility,” he added.

On the sidelines of the committee meeting, Mr Oyetola held strategic discussions with top international maritime leaders.

He met with IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez during talks focused on strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with the organisation. The minister also met the president of Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority, Fawaz Al Sehali. During the engagements, Mr Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deeper international cooperation across critical maritime priorities.

Discussions centred on maritime security, technical cooperation, capacity building, blue economy development, and a fair energy transition. He said Nigeria remained committed to partnerships built on mutual trust, shared responsibility, and long-term strategic interests.

He said Nigeria was prepared to contribute meaningfully to shaping a more inclusive global maritime future.

(NAN)