- A sea animal trapped in marine debris… much so endangered are vessels and crew in coastal shipping, trade and even leisure travels
The Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) is set for its 2025 summit on the urgent need to address the crisis of marine debris and its threat to the maritime industry, marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
Slated for Thursday, June 26, at the Rockview Hotel, Apapa, the theme of the summit is, “Marine Debris: The Danger Ahead”, with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, as the special guest of honour, while the President, National Association of Master Mariners, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, is the guest speaker.
Expected participants to explore the multifaceted challenges posed by marine debris are industry leaders, environmental experts, policymakers and stakeholders from across the sector, among others.
With studies indicating that millions of tons of plastic waste enter the oceans annually, the implications for marine life, human health and economic stability are dire. This summit aims to facilitate dialogue, share knowledge and build collaborative strategies to combat marine pollution effectively.
Other expected guests include the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah, and the Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority Bola Oyebamiji, among others.
According to SCAN President, Moses Ebosele, as an association dedicated to promoting sustainable practices within Nigeria’s maritime sector, SCAN is committed to raising awareness about the challenges posed by marine debris.
“The growing prevalence of marine debris is not just an environmental issue but also a socio-economic threat that can undermine the very foundations of the maritime industry and coastal communities,” he stated.
However, “through this summit, SCAN seeks to unite all stakeholders in addressing this challenge head-on, and to devise comprehensive strategies to combat marine debris to ensure a safer, cleaner marine environment for future generations.”
SCAN is a professional association dedicated to promoting maritime journalism in Nigeria and beyond by fostering collaboration, advocacy, for sustainable practices, and enhancing the flow of information within the maritime sector through informed reporting on industry developments.
