Tag: Adegboyega Oyetola

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that the Federal Government, through the Federal  Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy  recognised the importance of seafood trade not only as an economic activity but also as a source of animal protein and a driver of industrial linkages.

He said the government was working towards achieving national self-sufficiency in fish production through increased public and private sector investment, improved aquaculture and marine fisheries infrastructure, enhanced capacity building for operators and regulators, and the adoption of modern technology and continued collaboration with stakeholders.

Royal Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Svien Baera, renewed the call for the inclusion of stockfish and its head in the list of goods with zero import duty to make it affordable in the country.

Baera urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the sustainability of the sector through the zero import duties on stockfish due to the low quota of cod (the primary fish for stockfish) and its subsequent price increase fundamentally due to the forces and demand and supply.

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In a keynote presented during a one-day Interactive seminar between stakeholders and regulatory authorities involved in stockfish and seafood import and export trade in Nigeria organised by Norwegian Seafood Council at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, he said the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has intensified efforts to strengthen the policy and institutional framework for the development of fisheries and aquaculture.

Represented on the occasion by the Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Dr Mr. Wellington Omoragbon, the minister said key policy instruments such as the Marine and Blue Economy Policy, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy, the Fisheries Bill, Draft Fisheries Management Plan and the Marine and Blue Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan which have been developed to ensure responsible management of fisheries resources and to promote competitive and sustainable seafood production and trade in Nigeria.

He said in recent years, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has intensified efforts to strengthen the policy and institutional framework for the development of fisheries and aquaculture. Key policy instruments such as the Marine and Blue Economy Policy, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy, the Fisheries Bill, Draft Fisheries Management Plan and the Marine and Blue Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan which have been developed to ensure responsible management of fisheries resources and to promote competitive and sustainable seafood production and trade in Nigeria.

According to the minister, the focus of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is to increase domestic fish production through aquaculture expansion and improved marine fisheries management; strengthen regulatory compliance for fish with import and export to ensure quality, traceability, and conformity with international standards; ensure that fish consumed or sold in Nigeria is safe for consumption and does not pose any health risk to consumers through regular food safety tests conducted in our ISO 17025-accredited laboratory; and establish a National Residue Monitoring Laboratory for aquaculture fish to ensure continuous monitoring of chemical and antibiotic residues in line with international requirements for export certification. Others are to establish a National Fish Terminal to serve as a central hub for fish landing, processing, cold storage, and distribution, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing quality assurance; and strengthen capacity building for fisheries officers, fisherfolks, and fish farmers through training, extension services, and technical support.

He said: “While Nigeria continues to import fish to meet domestic demand, the long-term vision is to achieve national self-sufficiency in fish production through increased public and private sector investment, improved aquaculture and marine fisheries infrastructure, enhanced capacity building for operators and regulators, and the adoption of modern technology and continued collaboration with stakeholders.

“Efforts are also being directed towards strengthening the cold chain system, promoting value addition through fish processing and packaging, improving access to quality feed and seed, developing functional hatcheries, expanding extension services, and facilitating access to finance for fish farmers and entrepreneurs.

“Furthermore, the Ministry is partnering with development partners such as World Bank, research institutions, and coastal communities to promote innovation, ensure environmental sustainability, and enhance data-driven planning for fisheries and aquaculture development. In addition, the Ministry is also working to ensure that fish is affordable and available for the ordinary Nigerian.

“The Ministry is equally working towards streamlining seafood import and export processes, thereby reducing administrative bottlenecks, and ensuring regulatory harmony through collaboration with relevant agencies such as NAFDAC, SON, the Nigeria Customs Service, and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as through the National Single Window platform and the digitalization of the entire fisheries and aquaculture processes.”

According to Oyetola, under the Blue Economy framework, government is implementing measures to strengthen monitoring, control, and surveillance systems to address Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing; promote private sector investment in aquaculture and fisheries infrastructure; upgrade fish handling, processing, and certification systems to meet international export standards; and enhance collaboration with international partners on research, innovation, and digitalization of fisheries management.

The minister acknowledged the fact that the government alone cannot do everything. Therefore, partnership and collaboration are needed.    “Let me emphasize that the government’s efforts alone will not be sufficient to achieve the desired outcomes. Stakeholders must continue to cooperate with regulatory authorities, comply with established standards, and support the implementation of government policies and programmes. I encourage all stakeholders to freely express their concerns and share practical suggestions that will enable the government to address existing challenges and strengthen the regulatory environment.

“I reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to the development of a sustainable, efficient, and inclusive seafood value chain that will contribute to national food security, employment generation, and economic growth. Working together, we can transform Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture sector into a globally competitive industry that not only feeds our people but also advances the national Blue Economy,” Oyetola said.

The Norwegian envoy said Nigeria remained one of its largest markets in the world, adding that government intervention would help drive affordability among the large consuming population.

“Nigeria is consistently one of the largest importers of Norwegian stockfish in the world. It is an important part of the Nigerian kitchen.

 “What started as a trade relationship many decades ago has now grown into something mutually beneficial. This is not just a story of commerce; it is a story of cultural exchange.

“Both our nations share a strong commitment to sustainability to ensure that our oceans continue to provide for generations to come.

“As part of this responsible approach, we have in recent years seen a reduction in cod quotas, reflecting the need to protect fish stocks and support long-term marine health.

“Unfortunately, this necessary reduction has led to increased prices for both stockfish and stockfish heads, impacting both producers and consumers.

“Hence, we respectfully appeal once again for zero import duty on stockfish heads as a meaningful step towards ensuring continued accessibility and affordability for Nigerian consumers,” Baera said.

Also speaking on the occasion, both the Director of Africa, Norwegian Seafood Council, Mr Johnny Haaberg, and Fisheries Consultant to Norwegian Seafood Council, Ms. Abiodun Oritsjemine Cheke also supported the envoy’s call for zero-duty on the importation of fish head to promote the health of Nigerians.

“We try to share our knowledge about aquaculture and management of fisheries, also with Nigeria, and we have been doing that for many years, and we think the cooperation is very good.

“We have been raising the issue of zero duties for stockfish imports because we think the Nigerian consumers deserve better access to cheaper stockfish heads.

“Actually, we would wish to have more stockfish heads and stockfish at a good price to offer to the Nigerian market.

“But because of the lowering of our quotas, the exporters that are here, they sell everything they have, and they are not able to access more,” Haaberg said.

Ms. Cheke said Norway is ready to increase the training of local fish farmers in the country to increase local export opportunities.

“In the coming year, we will embark on the training of fish farmers and government officers in fisheries in the sustainability aspect and the documentation aspect of the trade.

“Nigeria’s product is banned from international trade simply because of documentation, sustainability and quality assurance.

“So, with this, we intend to leverage it to complement the last training we did for the fish farmers and fisheries officers.

“And we are also appealing to the Federal Government that stockfish, especially the heads, is for everybody and is about the cheapest protein in Nigeria.

“Stockfish heads should be placed on zero per cent import duties for a 150-day period, like the other staple foods. We are also praying for our appeal on zero per cent to be heard and for stockfish heads,” Cheke said.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has disclosed that the Federal Government has commenced the procurement process for the modernisation of seaports outside Lagos, as part of  its efforts to ensure balanced development in the nation’s maritime sector.

Oyetola spoke yesterday in Lagos at the 2025 Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Nigeria Conference, with the theme: “Enhancing Logistics and Transport for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria.” He was represented by the MD  of NPA. Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho.

He said the ongoing port modernisation drive is aimed at upgrading infrastructure, improving cargo handling efficiency, and expanding capacity to meet global standards.

 “We are working closely with all stakeholders to achieve a paperless, technology-driven port environment that enhances efficiency, reduces turnaround time, and curbs corruption.

“As part of this commitment, the Federal Government has approved a one billion US dollar modernisation project for the Lagos ports — a landmark initiative designed to upgrade infrastructure, improve cargo handling, and expand capacity to meet global standards.

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“The procurement process has commenced for similar modernisation projects at ports outside Lagos, to ensure balanced development across our maritime gateways,” he said.

The Minister explained that the initiatives reflect the administration’s determination to boost logistics performance and competitiveness within the marine and transport sectors, positioning Nigeria as a preferred hub for maritime trade and investment.

He noted that through strategic interventions such as the Deep Blue Project, Nigeria has sustained a record of zero piracy incidents in the past three years.

Oyetola said: “We have focused on strategic reform and institutional strengthening. With the Deep Blue Project and other interventions, we are safeguarding our maritime domain to encourage investment and reduce the cost of doing business. I am glad to inform you that for more than three years, Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents on its waterways.”

The Minister also disclosed that the government has developed a comprehensive 10-year National Blue Economy Strategy to align maritime, fisheries, logistics, and coastal development policies within a unified, sustainable framework.

According to him, the Ministry is creating an enabling environment for private sector investment through regulatory reforms, public-private partnerships (PPP), and targeted incentives aimed at driving innovation and job creation across the value chain.

He stressed that the Ministry’s overarching goal is to promote sustainable and inclusive growth — one that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and social equity.

“Our goal is not growth for growth’s sake, but sustainable and inclusive growth — one that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and social equity.

“Therefore, I urge CILT and its members to continue to champion the adoption of smart and green transport technologies; promote capacity building for young professionals and operators; advocate for data-driven planning in logistics management; and deepen collaboration with the Ministry and other stakeholders to align expertise with national priorities.”

Also, the President of CILT Nigeria, Mfon Usoro, announced a 242 per cent increase in the Institute’s revenue over the past four years, reflecting the success of ongoing financial reforms and governance initiatives.

According to her, CILT’s revenue rose from N7.8 million in December 2021 to N55 million in the third quarter of 2025, while its liquid assets grew from N17 million in early 2022 to N123 million as of Q3 2025.

She attributed the growth to sound financial discipline, accountability, and strategic oversight, adding that all projects and expenditures now pass through the Finance, Budget, and Audit Committee for review.

 “Every disbursement request is scrutinised and audited quarterly. The outcome has been phenomenal,” she noted.

Usoro revealed that the Council has approved the adoption of a modern Accounting Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to enhance transparency and streamline audits.

She said CILT’s transformation agenda—launched in 2021—has focused on governance reforms, membership expansion, and digitalisation, all of which have delivered tangible progress.

Established in 1958, CILT Nigeria operates under the global CILT network headquartered in the United Kingdom and serves as the professional body for logistics and transport practitioners in Nigeria.

 “Accountability and transparency remain our watchwords. The improvement in our financial standing reflects the confidence and trust of our members,” she said.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy,  Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s indigenous shipping industry, declaring that there is no going back on efforts to reposition local operators for global competitiveness.

The Minister gave the assurance yesterday, when he received a delegation from the Nigeria Maritime Exhibition and Conference (NIMAREX) planning committee in his office in Abuja.

The delegation, led by Sola Adewunmi, Chairman of the Committee and President of the Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA), also included Ms Funmi Folorunso, Secretary of the Committee, and Mr Tounbo Ogunwale, Director of Government Relations.

The team visited the Minister to seek the Ministry’s support for NIMAREX 2025, scheduled to take place in Lagos from 17th to 19th November 2025.

Oyetola commended the committee for reviving the once-dormant NIMAREX platform and said the government views the event as a crucial avenue for collaboration, investment promotion, and knowledge exchange within the maritime sector.

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He assured that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is taking decisive steps to create a conducive operating environment for indigenous shipowners, address longstanding structural challenges, and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain.

According to him: “Our commitment to indigenous shipping is total and irreversible. The Federal Government is working round the clock to put in place the right policies, funding mechanisms, and infrastructure that will enable Nigerian shipowners to compete favourably, not just locally but on the international stage. There is no going back on this commitment,” he said.

The Federal Government, Oyetola said, “is determined to see Nigerian-owned vessels flying our national flag and operating sustainably within our coastal waters and beyond,” the Minister added.

This, he said “ will create jobs, retain value within our economy, and build a stronger maritime nation anchored on local capacity”.

Earlier, Adewunmi told the Minister that, “ NIMAREX was revived after several years of inactivity to complement the government’s renewed push to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into the maritime and blue economy sectors.”

He explained that the upcoming edition would serve as a unifying platform for public and private stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable growth.

“NIMAREX is back, and this time it is bigger, broader, and better aligned with national objectives. We have the full support of key industry associations including NISA, the Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), and the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping. Our goal is to position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa,” Adewunmi said.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and commended Oyetola for his visionary leadership and his inclusive approach to engaging stakeholders in the implementation of the Blue Economy agenda, noting that the Minister’s support has rekindled confidence among shipowners and investors alike.

Nigeria, over the weekend, reaffirmed its global maritime standing as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, declared Federal Government’s commitment to sustaining the nation’s zero-piracy record and reclaiming its seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.

Oyetola, reiterated the Deep Blue Project is the cornerstone of Nigeria’s maritime security, which has led to 36 piracy incidents in 2020 dropping to zero since 2021. He said the country’s success in maintaining safe waters would form a strong case in its campaign to rejoin the IMO Council this November.

The minister stated this during a live anti-piracy demonstration by the Deep Blue Project officers at the Nigerian Navy Underwater Jetty, Ojo, Lagos; witnessed by the IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Domínguez, senior government officials and heads of key maritime agencies at the weekend in Lagos.

The simulation exercise showcased the coordination and firepower of the country’s integrated maritime security system—an initiative that has earned Nigeria three years of zero piracy incidents across its territorial waters and the Gulf of Guinea.

 “The Deep Blue project is a multi-layered security architecture that has earned Nigeria zero piracy for the past three years. And it’s not enough for us to say so. It’s important for people, particularly the Secretary General, to witness the demonstration. It’s not a fluke, it’s a reality,” Oyetola declared.

The exercise simulated a pirate attack on DB Lagos, one of the Deep Blue Project’s special mission vessels, as dignitaries watched from DB Abuja, another mission vessel. Within moments, the Maritime Security Unit (MSU) launched a swift and coordinated response, deploying two special mission helicopters, four fast interceptor boats and tactical personnel trained for both sea and aerial operations.

Acting on real-time intelligence from the project’s C4i Centre—the command and control hub—the team executed a precise counterattack. Using fast-roping “Komodo style” and rafting techniques, operatives boarded the vessel from both air and sea, overpowered the attackers, rescued the crew and carried out a mock medical evacuation to demonstrate casualty recovery procedures.

The seamless coordination of assets and personnel highlighted the efficiency of Nigeria’s integrated maritime security system and as NIMASA officials noted, reflected the nation’s firm commitment to protecting its waters and ensuring safer seas for trade and national prosperity.

The exercise, which left the IMO Secretary-General visibly impressed by the precision of the demonstration, commended Nigeria’s efforts in maritime security.

 “This is one of the most impressive displays that I have seen and experienced. The fact that for the last three years, there has been not a single piracy attack in the national waters of Nigeria just demonstrates the effectiveness. And of course this also demonstrates that commerce will return and thrive,” Domínguez said.

He encouraged the country to maintain the momentum and continue its campaign for re-election into the IMO Council, noting that the country’s leadership in the Gulf of Guinea has become a model for regional maritime safety.

 “Nigeria has been there before and I encourage you to continue your campaign. You are doing very good work and I wish you success,” he added.

Oyetola, who led the Nigerian delegation at the event, said the demonstration reaffirmed the country’s readiness to protect its maritime domain and uphold global shipping standards even as he acknowledged funding challenges.

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He said: “I must commend the various security agencies for their collaboration. It shows that with teamwork, there’s nothing we cannot achieve. Funding may be tough, but the Federal Government is determined to ensure our waters remain safe. This is vital for harnessing the full potential of our blue economy,” the minister assured.

He further disclosed that the country would intensify its diplomatic engagement at the IMO headquarters in London ahead of the November 2025 Council elections.

“I’m proud that the Secretary-General has witnessed this display. I’ll go back to London to convince the international community that Nigeria deserves a seat on the IMO Council,” Oyetola affirmed.

The demonstration concluded with an aerial salute from two Deep Blue helicopters, symbolising Nigeria’s vigilance and unity in maritime protection.

The Deep Blue Project, formally launched by former President Muhammadu Buhari in June 2021, represents Nigeria’s most comprehensive maritime security initiative. Jointly implemented by the Federal Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), it is designed to secure Nigerian waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea through a blend of land, sea, and air assets.

The Deep Blue Project is a fully integrated maritime security system combining land, sea, and air capabilities to protect Nigeria’s waters. On land, it features a state-of-the-art C4i Command, Control, Communication, Computer, and Intelligence Centre, supported by 16 armoured coastal patrol vehicles and 600 specially trained Maritime Security Unit (MSU) officers. Its sea component comprises two special mission vessels and 17 fast interceptor boats designed for rapid response to threats. In the air, the project operates two surveillance aircraft, three special mission helicopters, and four unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for reconnaissance, search, and rescue missions—together forming a seamless network for maritime safety and enforcement.

Nigeria’s campaign for a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category C has entered a new, high-profile phase in New York, as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy,  Adegboyega Oyetola, formally addressed Permanent Representatives of African nations to the United Nations at a reception in Nigeria House..

Having officially flagged off the campaign in London on 18th June at the IMO Headquarters, the New York event formed part of a sustained diplomatic engagement to mobilise support ahead of the Council elections scheduled for later this year.

Delivering a speech imbued with maritime vision and national resolve, Oyetola thanked the UN envoys for attending the reception held ahead of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and extended the warm greetings of President Bola Tinubu.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s candidature was more than an ambition: it is a solemn pledge of partnership with the international community.

Oyetola pointed to Nigeria’s extensive maritime endowments, which include 853 kilometres of coastline, over 10,000 kilometres of inland waterways, and a large Exclusive Economic Zone, as well as the country’s strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea, a corridor of vital commercial significance. He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the IMO’s core mandate of safe, secure, environmentally responsible, efficient and sustainable shipping.

The Minister drew attention to Nigeria’s track record of action, especially the transformative Deep Blue Project under the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), which has coordinated air, land and sea assets to enhance maritime security. He highlighted that for three consecutive years Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in its waters, while piracy in the broader Gulf of Guinea has dropped sharply – achievements which he said have restored confidence among international shipping stakeholders and affirmed Nigeria’s role as a guarantor of maritime safety.

He said, “In recent years, we have transformed the maritime security architecture of our region. Through the landmark Deep Blue Project, we have established a multi-layered, integrated maritime security framework, coordinating air, land, and sea assets under the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The results speak for themselves: for three consecutive years, Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents on its waters, while incidents in the Gulf of Guinea have drastically reduced, restoring confidence for international shipping and underscoring Nigeria’s role as a guarantor of maritime safety. 

 “Our ports serve as critical gateways for trade in West and Central Africa, while our shipping industry remains one of the largest in sub-Saharan Africa. With a renewed national focus on the blue economy and robust institutional reforms, Nigeria is repositioning itself as a regional maritime powerhouse and a dependable global partner in shaping the future of international shipping.”

The Minister underscored Nigeria’s renewed institutional reforms and growing blue economy agenda. He explained that Nigeria has ratified and domesticated key IMO conventions and is actively working to accede to additional instruments addressing greenhouse gas emissions, biofouling, and maritime labour rights. Compliance with regulations on emissions, pollution control, and sustainable port operations are central to this alignment with global norms.

He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14, which concerns the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources, and to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

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 “Nigeria has signed the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) and has already commenced its ratification process. Demonstrating regional leadership, Nigeria has also spearheaded efforts among West African nations, validating a regional roadmap for the development of a proposal to designate a High Seas Marine Protected Area in the Convergence Zone of the Canary and Guinea Currents.

 “Nigeria envisions an IMO that is representative, inclusive, and forward-looking. With a population exceeding 240 million — of whom nearly 60 per cent are under 19 years old — Nigeria stands as both a regional maritime leader and a partner for the future. We are making sustained investments in maritime education, capacity-building, and skills transfer. We are also committed to gender inclusivity, fostering the participation of women as seafarers, port operators, and maritime leaders — because global progress must rest on shared opportunity,” Oyetola said. 

Nigeria’s campaign, according to Oyetola, is grounded in reciprocity and solidarity. The strategy seeks bilateral and multilateral bridging, with Nigeria sharing technical assistance and expertise with other developing states, particularly within Africa, Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries.

The Minister asserted that a vote for Nigeria would be a vote for responsible leadership, inclusivity, and balanced, collaborative progress in maritime governance.

He urged the envoys to support Nigeria as part of efforts to shape a maritime order that is safer, greener, more resilient and more inclusive; to safeguard trade, protect the planet, and uplift people.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said yesterday that lack of supporting infrastructure such road and rail infrastructure, and navigability challenges along the River Niger have combined to render the Baro Inland Port non-operational

Commissioned in 2019, the Minister said the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that the port located in Niger State becomes a vibrant inland gateway.

Oyetola who spoke when he appeared before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Stakeholders’ Engagement on the Challenges and Prospects of the Baro River Port, acknowledged that the Port has been struggling to operate at capacity since its commissioning in 2019 due to gaps in supporting infrastructure and navigability.

He said: “Although commissioned in 2019 under the past administration, the port has faced operational constraints — chief among them, the absence of critical linkages to road and rail infrastructure, and navigability challenges along the River Niger.

“The challenges are there, no doubt about it. When the issue of the port was being conceived, ordinarily one would have expected that infrastructures that would make it operational should have been provided.

“The ministry was created barely two years ago, so we inherited it from the previous administration. And part of what we’re trying to do is to ensure the need to do a lot of dredging. Unfortunately, we are hampered by the scarcity of funds.”

He said the government was taking concrete steps to overcome the existing challenges and unlock Baro Port’s full economic potential.

According to him, the measures include improving river navigability through capital and continuous dredging, developing road and rail connections for seamless cargo movement, attracting credible private sector operators through concessions and partnerships, and instituting transparent governance systems.

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According to him, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) plans to dredge up to 2,000 kilometres of inland waterways, a move that will ensure Baro Port maintains the appropriate depth for year-round operations.

 “Our Ministry remains unwavering in its determination to transform Baro from a dormant facility into a thriving inland gateway. We are working closely with the Federal Ministries of Works and Transportation to deliver an integrated framework that combines infrastructure, operational efficiency, and private sector participation,” he said.

Oyetola said Baro Port which is located is strategically positioned to link agricultural value chains and serve as a feeder to Onitsha, Lokoja, and Warri ports, adding that once operational, it could significantly boost Nigeria’s trade competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and ease pressure on the nation’s highways.

Responding to a question by a member of the Committee, the Minister said that, Baro Port has been a priority, but there has been lack of funds to dredge to make it navigable early enough.

He said: “But essentially, the funding thing has been a constraint, and I believe with your committee now recommending the need to ensure adequate provision is made for some of the infrastructure, I believe those challenges will be a thing of the past.”

Minister of Transportation Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali said his ministry is developing a rail line to connect Baro Port with the rest of the country. He acknowledged funding as a major hurdle and appealed to lawmakers for adequate budgetary provisions to ensure the linkage is completed.

Managing Director of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji said the Baro Port was first established in 1908 by Lord Lugard to facilitate the shipment of agricultural produce and livestock, serving as a major trade link between northern and southern Nigeria.

He noted that the port holds significant economic potential for the country, with all necessary facilities and equipment already in place, and identified the lack of dredging, as well as inadequate road and rail connectivity, as key challenges preventing the port from reaching full operational capacity.

Oyebamiji said the project was awarded by the previous administration at a cost of ₦3.56 billion, of which ₦3.35 billion representing 94 per cent has already been paid to the contractor.

He further added that arrangements are currently underway to concession the port to private operators in order to attract fresh investment and ensure its effective operationalization.

Speaking earlier, the House Ad-Hoc Committee Chairman, Rt. Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi, underscored that the panel’s role is not investigative but facilitative, aimed at ensuring the full operationalization of the port. He disclosed that the current engagement will be followed by a national stakeholders’ forum to build consensus and mobilise political, technical, and financial backing for the project.

Abdullahi stressed the committee’s determination to see Baro Port fully utilised, describing its strategic value to national trade, regional connectivity, and economic diversification as “immense and non-negotiable.”

After the various submissions by the Ministers and other heads of agencies, the Committee resolved that, it will embark on an on the spot assessment to the Port on Saturday in order to see what would be done to make its operations a reality.

The Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC) has called on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, to urgently initiate a comprehensive reform of the freight forwarding sub-sector, warning that continued regulatory dysfunction threatens the stability of the nation’s maritime logistics ecosystem.

In an open letter addressed to the minister and signed by its Head of Research, who’s also a Forwarder, Eugene Nweke, SEREC raised alarm over the persistent crisis between the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) and key industry associations.

The group cited the recent call by the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) to deregister several other freight forwarding associations, including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AREFFN), and National Association of Forwarders and Consolidators (NAFFAC), as a reflection of deeper structural and governance challenges in the sector.

SEREC noted that while arguments exist on both sides of the deregistration debate, the underlying issues require a holistic and inclusive reform, not isolated punitive measures.

 “There’s no better time to reinforce sanity in the freight forwarding profession than now,” Nweke said, stressing that the sector’s professional integrity and economic role must no longer be compromised by factional politics and weak regulatory oversight.

The centre emphasised that freight forwarding logistics is a critical pillar of Nigeria’s maritime and economic infrastructure. According to SEREC, the sector facilitates international trade, generates customs revenue for the government, ensures safe and efficient cargo movement, and supports national development by providing vital logistics services to various sectors of the economy.

However, the body expressed concern that prolonged conflicts, lack of institutional direction, and political interference in the CRFFN have created instability, diminished confidence, and undermined professional standards. SEREC accused previous governing council members, past registrars, and consultants of prioritising personal and financial interests over the development of the profession, resulting in the erosion of CRFFN’s credibility and capacity to regulate effectively.

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To restore confidence and reposition the sub-sector, SEREC presented a five-point action plan to the ministry. First, it urged the government to conduct a thorough investigation into CRFFN’s operations and its dealings with registered associations, to determine whether due process and equity are being observed. Second, it called for extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure that future reforms are inclusive, industry-led, and not politically motivated.

The third recommendation involves a comprehensive review of CRFFN’s regulatory framework, with the goal of modernising its mandate and making it fit-for-purpose. The group also advised the Ministry to proactively mediate disputes and foster industry stability, creating a conducive environment for freight forwarders to operate effectively.

Finally, SEREC pressed for the swift passage of the pending amendment to the CRFFN Act (Act 16 of 2007), currently before the National Assembly, noting that the current version of the law contains ambiguities that have contributed to poor governance and persistent legal disputes.

Citing Section 5 of the CRFFN Act, which empowers the minister to provide oversight and direction, SEREC maintained that it is within the minister’s statutory duty to correct the trajectory of the sub-sector.

“We urge you to dutifully salvage a seemingly helpless sub-sector of the maritime industry, the freight forwarding providers for optimal performance. Reform now, or never!,” the letter stated.

The appeal comes at a time when the country’s Blue Economy agenda is gaining traction under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. As such, stakeholders believe that addressing foundational gaps in freight forwarding governance is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the maritime sector and ensuring sustainable economic growth.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has launched a high-level “door-to-door” campaign in London to rally international support for Nigeria’s bid to secure a seat in Category ‘C’ of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.

The campaign, which officially kicked off at the IMO Headquarters last Wednesday, marks a significant step in the country’s quest to solidify its voice in global maritime governance.

Since arriving in London, Oyetola has held a flurry of bilateral meetings with representatives of maritime nations, including Greece, Spain, Oman, Bangladesh, Namibia, Mexico, and Italy, as part of a week-long lobbying effort at the ongoing 134th session of the IMO Council.

“Nigeria is not just seeking a seat; we are offering partnership, commitment, and leadership. We come to the IMO table with a strong track record in maritime security, a vast coastline brimming with potential, and a renewed national agenda anchored on collaboration and sustainability,” Oyetola told delegates on the sidelines of the Council session. Backed by goodwill messages from President Bola Tinubu, the minister’s diplomatic efforts underscore the nation’s determination to elevate its profile in the global maritime arena. Central to Nigeria’s campaign is its acclaimed success in maritime security, especially the elimination of piracy within its territorial waters and the broader Gulf of Guinea.

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“For three consecutive years, Nigeria has recorded zero incidents of piracy in its waters. Security is the bedrock of maritime prosperity. Our success in this regard demonstrates what is possible when nations take bold, coordinated action,” Oyetola stated. He also highlighted the country’s readiness to deepen maritime cooperation across areas such as shipbuilding, port modernisation, green shipping, and intra-African trade.

“Nigeria is ready to work with IMO Member States to strengthen the pillars of global maritime growth. Our goal is to build enduring bridges of cooperation that will outlast election cycles and deliver impact for future generations,” he said.

The current diplomatic drive follows previous engagements by Oyetola at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, where he met with leaders of several Island nations in furtherance of Nigeria’s IMO aspirations.

Category C of the IMO Council is reserved for countries with special interests in maritime transport or whose inclusion ensures regional representation. A successful bid would not only amplify Nigeria’s maritime voice but also enhance Africa’s role in shaping international shipping policy.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment, Oyetola added, “We are committed to upholding IMO’s values of safety, security, and environmental responsibility. A vote for Nigeria is a vote for a more inclusive, cooperative and resilient global maritime future.”