In response to the severe impact of climate change on Nigerian coastal communities, Tantita Security Services has proposed the adoption of carbon credit schemes, potentially generating over N320 million yearly for these communities.
Captain Warredi Enisuoh, Executive Director of Operations at Tantita Security, made this recommendation while delivering a guest lecture at the African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative’s (AFMESI) 4th Annual Symposium and Workshop in Lagos on Tuesday.
In his lecture titled “Achieving Blue Growth in a Changing Climate – Integrating the Coastal Communities,” Capt. Enisuoh emphasized the role of carbon credits as a solution to the widespread pollution in the Niger-Delta region. He highlighted that a single mature tree can absorb 80 kilogrammes of CO₂ annually, noting that many developed nations have successfully implemented carbon credit initiatives to protect their environments.
“If we allocate 50,000 trees per coastal community, with one carbon credit equivalent to one ton of carbon dioxide valued at $50, the potential annual earnings could be significant. With 4,000,000 kilograms of CO₂ absorbed per year, this translates to $200,000 per community. Multiply that by 1,600 communities, and the total annual earnings could reach N320 million,” Enisuoh explained.
However, he expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s recent signing of the Climate Change Act, the government continues to invest in diesel-powered trains. He suggested that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) could exchange carbon offsets for funds to be used for port automation, urging maritime operators to approach the carbon credit initiative with genuine environmental concern, rather than purely financial motives.
The workshop was officially opened by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy; Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, who was represented by Prof. Stephen Fakinlede. Oyetola encouraged participants to propose viable solutions to the challenges facing the blue economy, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to safety and sustainable development in this sector.
While speaking, the President of AFMESI, Dr Felicia Mogo reiterated the initiative’s focus on creating innovative financing mechanisms to support blue economy projects across Africa. She emphasized the importance of attracting investments in sustainable ocean industries, such as eco-friendly aquaculture and renewable marine energy, to benefit the most vulnerable communities.
“Over the years, AFMESI has led numerous projects across Nigeria and Africa to protect marine ecosystems, empower coastal communities, and advance policies for sustainable marine practices,” she disclosed.
The event was attended by prominent figures in Nigeria’s maritime sector, including Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA); Capt. Sunday Umoren, Secretary General of the Abuja MoU on Port State Control for West and Central Africa; Barr. (Mrs.) Adesuwa Ladoja, Managing Director of Lagos Free Zone (LFZ); and Hon. Olaitan Williams, President of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation (OAF), among others.
