Nigeria is taking steps to improve safety on its inland waterways. The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has initiated the distribution of 42,000 life jackets to waterway users across 12 riverine states. Each state will receive 3,500 life jackets in the first phase. This move aims to reduce boat mishaps and fatalities, addressing issues like human error, poor equipment, and non-compliance with safety measures.

Oyetola emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods, calling the rising incidence of boat accidents a national emergency. He also mentioned the introduction of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations, 2023, designed to standardize operations and enforce compliance.

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, welcomed the initiative, noting that Niger State had the highest boat accident casualties in 2024. Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oloruntola stressed the importance of wearing life jackets and reiterated the government's priority of safety on the waterways.

In a separate development, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) is focusing on decarbonization in line with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) 2030 deadline. NSML is investing in cleaner fuels and advanced vessels to cut carbon emissions in the global shipping industry. Managing Director Abdulkadir Ahmed stated that NSML is aligning with the IMO’s green shipping agenda through fleet renewal, dual-fuel vessels, and exploration of low-carbon energy sources.

Ahmed mentioned that NSML vessels primarily run on gas, which significantly reduces carbon emissions. The company is also exploring carbon-neutral fuels like hydrogen and ammonia, despite infrastructure and availability challenges. NSML's fleet renewal program aims to replace older steam-powered ships with more energy-efficient vessels. The recent addition of AXIOS II, a state-of-the-art LNG carrier, demonstrates this commitment. AXIOS II and the earlier acquisition of Arcturus showcase NSML's growing capability in managing advanced LNG vessels.

Despite being a modest player in global shipping, NSML is becoming a key LNG vessel management entity in sub-Saharan Africa.