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Tag: blue economy

  • ‘Port charges threatening N10tr blue economy target’

    ‘Port charges threatening N10tr blue economy target’

    Unregulated port and shipping charges are adding as much as 1.2 percentage points to Nigeria’s annual inflation and could derail the Federal Government’s ambition to unlock N7 trillion to N10 trillion annually from the Marine and Blue Economy, according to a new policy memorandum by the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC).

    In a post-protest assessment submitted by the centre’s Head of Research, Eugene Nweke, to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), the maritime research group warned that escalating charges at the nation’s ports, particularly along the Apapa corridor, have become a macroeconomic risk, raising import costs, weakening trade competitiveness and exposing supply chains to repeated disruption.

    SEREC’s analysis shows that Apapa ports, which handle over 60 per cent of the country’s containerised imports, process an estimated 1.5 to 1.8 million TEUs annually. The report found that recent incremental shipping line and terminal charges of N150,000 to N250,000 per container translate into an additional N225 billion to N450 billion annual cost burden on the Nigerian economy.

    These costs, the group said, are ultimately transferred to manufacturers, importers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and final consumers, amplifying inflationary pressure across key sectors.

    “Port and shipping charges now account for 30 to 40 per cent of landed import costs for some cargoes,” SEREC stated, noting that logistics-driven price increases are particularly severe for food items, pharmaceuticals and industrial inputs.

    READ ALSO: Why Northern Nigeria must put education first

    According to the memorandum, every 10 per cent rise in logistics costs is conservatively associated with a 1.5 to 2 per cent increase in consumer prices, making unchecked port charges a “hidden inflation tax” that undermines national anti-inflation efforts.

    SEREC warned that without regulatory consolidation, logistics-related costs alone could continue to add 0.7 to 1.2 percentage points to headline inflation annually.

    The policy document followed recent street-style protests by freight forwarding practitioners over shipping line charges, which culminated in the physical shutdown of a shipping company’s operations at Apapa and forced regulatory intervention by the NSC.

    While acknowledging the legitimacy of industry grievances, SEREC cautioned that such methods carry steep economic consequences.

    “Physical shutdowns disrupt cargo clearance cycles, conservatively costing the economy N3 billion to N5 billion per day in delayed cargo, demurrage, storage charges and lost productivity,” the group said, adding that prolonged disruptions could expose practitioners and associations to civil liability claims running into tens of billions of naira.

    Beyond protests, the group identified regulatory ambiguity—particularly the unclear distinction between tariff consultation and approval, as a structural weakness discouraging long-term investment in port services.

    The report noted that investor surveys consistently show that regulatory unpredictability increases the required return on investment by 3 to 5 per cent, raising port service costs and weakening Nigeria’s competitiveness relative to regional ports.

    It warned that sustained high costs could trigger the diversion of 10 to 15 per cent of West African transit cargo to neighbouring countries.

    If existing gaps persist, SEREC estimates that Nigeria could continue to lose N500 billion to N700 billion annually to trade inefficiencies driven by excessive charges, delays and regulatory uncertainty.

    The group also warned that reputational damage and weak governance could undermine the Marine and Blue Economy’s projected N7 trillion to N10 trillion annual contribution to GDP over the medium term.

    To reverse the trend, the research body urged the federal government to institutionalise a binding national port tariff review and approval framework, supported by mandatory cost-justification disclosures.

    The organisation estimates that such reforms could reduce unjustified charges by 10 to 20 per cent, generating N200 billion to N400 billion in annual savings for the economy.

    It also recommended the creation of a Standing Port Charges Review and Mediation Forum, with an estimated operating cost of N300 million to N500 million annually, but capable of preventing disruptions and avoiding losses of N50 billion to N100 billion each year.

    Concluding, SEREC noted that port economic regulation should be treated as a macroeconomic stabilisation tool, not merely an industry concern.

    “When regulation fails, the economy pays. When regulation is predictable, the economy gains,” the memorandum stated.

    According to the maritime think tank, strengthening port charges governance is “central to inflation control, trade competitiveness and the long-term success of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy agenda.”

  • A year of transformation, global recognition

    A year of transformation, global recognition

    Nigeria’s maritime sector in 2025 recorded a watershed year of transformation, strategic reforms, and global recognition, demonstrating resilience despite structural challenges. With investments in port modernisation, digitalisation, human capital development, and fisheries, Nigeria positioned itself as a competitive continental maritime hub. AFIONG EDEMUMOH reports

    The year marked Nigeria’s return to global maritime prominence. In November 2025, Nigeria reclaimed a Category C seat at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium after a 14-year absence, securing 116 votes and defeating Denmark, Kenya, and Bangladesh. Category C representation includes nations with special interests in maritime transport and navigation, ensuring Nigeria a platform to influence global maritime policies, from safety and environmental protection to trade facilitation and technical cooperation.

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the victory as a “landmark endorsement of renewed global confidence in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.” The seat strengthens Africa’s representation at IMO and enables Nigeria to advance Gulf of Guinea security priorities, including piracy suppression and maritime capacity-building initiatives.

    Complementing this, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, was elected Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council in June 2025, the first Nigerian to lead the body since its inception in 1952. The WCO represents 187 customs administrations globally, and Adeniyi’s leadership validates Nigeria’s digitalisation and trade facilitation reforms, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, SAFE Framework implementation, and the $3.2 billion E-Customs Modernisation Project. His December 2025 chairing of the WCO Policy Commission session in Guatemala further advanced Nigeria’s role in shaping continental trade facilitation standards under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Read Also: FG did not give Makinde N50bn, only N30bn was released – Aide

    Port modernisation and infrastructure upgrades

    The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) accelerated port modernisation programmes in 2025, with Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho’s election as Vice President (Africa) of the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) lending global recognition to Nigeria’s reforms. The authority undertook extensive dredging and channel expansion at Calabar, Warri, and Burutu ports, deployed six advanced scanners, including the FS6000 model for non-intrusive inspections, and implemented the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), codenamed B’Odogwu.

    These initiatives were complemented by the full operationalisation of Dangote Refinery’s marine facilities, expected to attract over 600 vessels annually, and substantial capital investments at Eastern ports aimed at decongesting Lagos-based facilities. The strategic deployment of modern port technologies improved cargo handling, reduced turnaround times, and reinforced Nigeria’s capacity under AfCFTA to serve as a regional transshipment and logistics hub.

    The Lekki Deep Sea Port emerged as a game-changer, processing goods worth nearly $9.3 billion (N13.46 trillion) in the first nine months of 2025. Automation in container handling and cargo tracking, combined with a deeper draught accommodating ultra-large vessels, positioned Lekki as Nigeria’s second-largest port by trade value, surpassing Tin Can Island and Onne, with only Apapa maintaining higher throughput.

    Digitalisation and regulatory reforms

    Digital transformation extended beyond ports. The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) launched its Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS) in Abuja, unveiled by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Oyetola. ECMS introduced automated workflows, centralised digital records, real-time task tracking, and secure approvals, significantly reducing bureaucratic delays and enhancing port performance. This initiative aligned with broader sector reforms, including the rollout of inland dry ports and the resolution of chronic congestion at Apapa.

    Regulatory reforms also delivered economic impact. The NSC’s Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanism saved maritime stakeholders over N10 billion in 2025, handling between 300 and 400 cases. The Council advanced 14 Vehicle Transit Parks to mitigate driver fatigue, accelerated inland dry port projects in Funtua and Borno, and established Border Information Centres to capture informal trade and curb smuggling. The Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill, pending presidential assent, promises to replace the outdated 1978 decree, providing regulatory certainty for investors while strengthening the NSC’s mandate.

    The Nigeria Customs Service further enhanced trade facilitation through the National Single Window platform and the Authorised Economic Operator programme, reducing clearance timelines at Apapa and Tin Can ports from 21 days to 7–10 days for compliant operators. The indigenous B’Odogwu customs clearance platform expanded nationwide, streamlining operations and boosting transparency. Joint border patrols with the Nigerian Army, DSS, and Police, supported by drones and real-time intelligence, enhanced security and revenue collection.

    Revenue performance and economic contributions

    Maritime agencies under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy achieved remarkable revenue growth in 2025.

    Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) targeted N1.28 trillion, a 40 per cent increase from N865.39bn in 2024 which it surpassed by recording an actual income of N894.86bn, with over 70 per cent earmarked for capital projects at Calabar, Warri, Burutu, and other Eastern ports. Revenue streams include ship dues (N544.06 billion), cargo dues (N413.06 billion), concession fees (N249.69 billion), and administrative revenue (N73.07 billion).

    Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) projected N774.66 billion, leveraging automation, offshore waste management, sea protection, and ship registration, with N264.96 billion available for agency operations post-deductions.

    National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) targeted N34.389 billion, exceeding a 200 per cent growth over 2024, driven by Port Development Levies and remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, alongside investments in dredging, wreck removal, and vessel acquisition.

    According to reports, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) did not set a major standalone revenue target for 2025. Instead, its budget relied on the collection of a 1 per cent Freight Stabiliaation Fee, as authorised under the NSC Act, to fund its regulatory functions. This fee is expected to take effect once the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill receives Presidential assent.

    In the meantime, the council generated N19.15 billion in 2024, maintaining its regulatory role despite marginal declines from the previous year.

    Human capital development

    Human capital development remained a critical focus. NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Ltd (NSML) inducted 21 Nigerian cadets for UK-based training and mandatory sea-time leading to Certificates of Competency. Nigerian shipowners provided over 60 sea-time slots to cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, complementing training for Nigerian Maritime University (NMU) cadets. NSML’s Maritime Centre of Excellence secured UK accreditation for four specialised courses, aiming to become a premier training hub in Africa.

    At MAN, reforms included the first-ever approved Conditions of Service in 48 years, employment of professional lecturers, and expansion of infrastructure, simulators, medical centers, and engineering workshops. Despite graduating over 200 cadets in 2025 with international professional registration, challenges remain in securing adequate onboard training due to limited vessel availability.

    Maritime security and the deep blue project

    Security improvements were sustained through the Deep Blue Project, officially the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure. Nigeria achieved its third consecutive year of zero piracy reports, deploying patrol boats, interceptor vessels, surveillance aircraft, helicopters, drones, and the C4i command system integrated with the Nigerian Navy’s Falcon Eye system. These interventions eliminated War Risk Insurance premiums estimated at $400 million annually and positioned Nigeria as a safe maritime corridor in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Fisheries and blue economy development

    The fisheries and aquaculture sector expanded production from 1.1 million to 1.4 million metric tons, supported by federal interventions, capacity-building, and access to single-digit interest loans. Oyetola emphasised the sector’s role in food security under the Renewed Hope Agenda, reducing illegal fishing practices, and contributing to Nigeria’s blue economy valuation of $296 billion.

    Persistent challenges

    Despite progress, significant challenges remain. About 85 percent of port infrastructure exceeds 40 years, overlapping agency mandates create bureaucratic bottlenecks, and regulatory inconsistencies persist. Cargo dwell times remain 18–20 days, far above the global benchmark of 3–5 days. Foreign exchange volatility, stowaway incidents, empty container mismanagement causing $500 million losses annually, and a lack of national shipping capacity continue to constrain efficiency. Seafarer brain drain and insufficient certification opportunities further limit Nigeria’s global maritime competitiveness.

    Strategic opportunities

    The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents opportunities to expand intra-African trade flows, increase cargo volumes, and position Nigeria as a transshipment hub. Inland waterways activation across 10,000 kilometers of navigable routes offers year-round multimodal logistics potential, reducing road congestion. Export diversification of solid minerals and agro commodities, alongside the proposed national maritime flag carrier through a public-private partnership, seeks to retain freight earnings domestically. Lekki Deep Sea Port, capable of accommodating ultra-large vessels, demonstrates Nigeria’s potential to serve landlocked countries such as Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

    Outlook and reform imperatives

    The 10-Year National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy (2025–2034) provides a comprehensive framework covering port modernisation, inland waterways, cabotage enforcement, maritime security, and technology adoption. However, implementation gaps remain the central challenge. Key reforms include accelerating National Single Window deployment, enforcing the Cabotage Act, fully digitising port operations, activating inland waterways for multimodal transport, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and sustaining maritime security investments. Comparative benchmarks from Ghana’s Tema Port and Togo’s Lomé Port emphasise that efficiency, automation, and regulatory certainty, not scale alone, drive maritime competitiveness.

    2025, industry players affirm, was a transformative year for Nigeria’s maritime sector, marked by digital innovation, port modernisation, regulatory reform, global recognition, and human capital development. Historic achievements, such as IMO Council election, WCO leadership, and Deep Blue Project success, they agree, underscore Nigeria’s growing influence in global maritime governance. Strategic investments in Lekki Deep Sea Port, inland dry ports, and capacity-building initiatives position Nigeria to lead in regional maritime trade. With sustained implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, coherent reforms, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration, the sector, stakeholders say, is poised to drive economic diversification, strengthen food security, and establish Nigeria as Africa’s premier maritime and logistics hub.

  • ‘Blue Economy key to Nigeria’s sustainable growth’

    ‘Blue Economy key to Nigeria’s sustainable growth’

    Nigeria must urgently pivot from crude oil dependence to fully harness its vast maritime resources if it hopes to achieve sustainable growth, improve public health and create millions of jobs, maritime experts have said.

    At a National Blue Economy Summit in Port Harcourt, stakeholders cautioned that decades of oil-dependent development have inflicted severe environmental and health damage on Nigeria.

    Various speakers at the summit monitored online by The Nation, held that the country continues to underutilise its most promising economic frontier—the maritime sector.

    For instance, the President, Admiralty Law Society of Nigeria, Angus Chukwuka, linked the country’s rising health burdens and declining life expectancy to long-term reliance on crude oil, arguing that the blue economy offers a cleaner and more inclusive development pathway.

    He described the maritime sector as largely untapped, with the potential to transform coastal communities and drive broad-based prosperity if properly developed.

    Chukwuka commended President Bola Tinubu’s establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a positive policy signal, but stressed that improved maritime security remains critical to attracting trade flows and large-scale private investment into the sector.

    According to him, prosperity from the oceans is inseparable from safety at sea.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    He said: “If we can assess the sea, therefore, we can assess greater prosperity. We can assess greater employment opportunities.”

    “We can be more assured of food, of water and other infrastructure. We’re looking at the security aspect of it because we believe that if there is proper security, we can surely arrive at that destination.”

    Delivering the lead paper at the summit, a retired naval officer, Captain George Alily, highlighted structural and operational challenges limiting the optimal use of Nigeria’s eastern ports, while pointing to recent gains in maritime surveillance and security. He cited the deployment of the Falcon Eye system as a major milestone in safeguarding Nigeria’s waters.

     “The Falcon Eye system is an integrated coastal radar system which provides real-time surveillance coverage across Nigeria’s EEZ, allowing for early detection of suspicious maritime activities and prompt naval response,” Alily said.

    The surveillance infrastructure has contributed directly to Nigeria’s continued zero piracy rating by the International Maritime Bureau.

    Panel discussions at the summit focused on the need for port rehabilitation, stronger inter-agency coordination and sustained investment in maritime security infrastructure to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters and inland waterways. Participants argued that improved connectivity between inland markets and seaports could unlock massive employment and trade opportunities.

    One stakeholder underscored the economic potential of inland water transport, noting that “Onitsha Market is the largest market in Africa. And if there’s an all-year-round water, Onitsha Port will provide two million jobs, two million direct employment.”

    With calls for economic diversification growing louder amid global energy transition pressures, stakeholders at the summit agreed that Nigeria must move decisively to unlock the full value of its oceans, rivers and ports. They said embracing the blue economy could drive cleaner growth, improve health outcomes, create jobs and lay the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable national economy.

  • Experts: Blue Economy, not oil, key to Nigeria’s sustainable growth

    Experts: Blue Economy, not oil, key to Nigeria’s sustainable growth

    Nigeria must urgently shift from reliance on crude oil to fully utilize its extensive maritime resources if it wants to achieve sustainable growth, improve public health, and create millions of jobs, maritime experts have stated.

    At the National Blue Economy Summit in Port Harcourt, stakeholders cautioned that decades of oil-dependent development have inflicted severe environmental and health damage on Nigeria.

    Various speakers at the summit monitored online by The Nation held that the country continues to underutilize its most promising economic frontier—the maritime sector.

    For instance, the President, Admiralty Law Society of Nigeria, Angus Chukwuka, linked the country’s rising health burdens and declining life expectancy to long-term reliance on crude oil, arguing that the blue economy offers a cleaner and more inclusive development pathway.

    He described the maritime sector as largely untapped, with the potential to transform coastal communities and drive broad-based prosperity if properly developed.

    Chukwuka commended President Bola Tinubu’s establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a positive policy signal, but stressed that improved maritime security remains critical to attracting trade flows and large-scale private investment into the sector.

    According to him, prosperity from the oceans is inseparable from safety at sea.

    READ ALSO: We’ll mobilise all military assets against insecurity, says Tinubu

    He said, “If we can assess the sea, then we can assess greater prosperity. We can assess greater employment opportunities.”

    “We can be more assured of food, water, and other infrastructure. We’re looking at the security aspect of it because we believe that if there is proper security, we can surely arrive at that destination.”

    Delivering the lead paper at the summit, a retired naval officer, Captain George Alily, highlighted structural and operational challenges limiting the optimal use of Nigeria’s eastern ports, while pointing to recent gains in maritime surveillance and security.

    He cited the deployment of the Falcon Eye system as a major milestone in safeguarding Nigeria’s waters.

    “The Falcon Eye system is an integrated coastal radar system which provides real-time surveillance coverage across Nigeria’s EEZ, allowing for early detection of suspicious maritime activities and prompt naval response,” Alily said.

    The surveillance infrastructure has contributed directly to Nigeria’s continued zero piracy rating by the International Maritime Bureau,” he added.

    Panel discussions at the summit focused on the need for port rehabilitation, stronger inter-agency coordination, and sustained investment in maritime security infrastructure to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters and inland waterways.

    Participants argued that improved connectivity between inland markets and seaports could unlock massive employment and trade opportunities.

    One stakeholder underscored the economic potential of inland water transport, noting that “Onitsha Market is the largest market in Africa. And if there’s an all-year-round water, Onitsha Port will provide two million jobs, two million direct employment.”

    With calls for economic diversification growing louder amid global energy transition pressures, stakeholders at the summit agreed that Nigeria must move decisively to unlock the full value of its oceans, rivers, and ports.

    They said that embracing the blue economy could drive cleaner growth, improve health outcomes, create jobs, and lay the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable national economy.

  • Blue economy, green resolve: Lagos charts Africa’s coastal future

    Blue economy, green resolve: Lagos charts Africa’s coastal future

    • By Babajide Fadoju

    The 11th Lagos International Climate Change Summit held recently at the Lagos Continental Hotel, drew delegates from across Africa and beyond.

    Goodwill messages from the Dutch government, Chinese embassy, UK High Commission, and German Consulate opened proceedings, signalling the global stakes in what the city plans to do with its 187 kilometres of coastline.

    These opening salutes were not mere formalities; they signalled a readiness among international partners to back Lagos’s bid to transform its marine frontier from a site of erosion and flood risk into an engine of sustainable growth.

    Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, the man of the moment in his opening remarks, urged participants to see the ocean as a living system requiring careful management, not a resource open to unchecked extraction.

    Despite repeated floods and erosion, Lagos’s marine waters remain the artery for trade and the livelihood base for thousands of fisherfolk.

    Wahab said the summit’s task was to close the gap between climate ambition and the capital required to realise it. Concrete steps, he noted, were already in motion.

    Day one unfolded with sessions that grounded these high-level pledges in specifics.

    Representatives from Eko Atlantic City, the audacious reclamation project that has added 10 square kilometres to Lagos’s landmass, shared insights on engineering resilience at scale.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu laid out the central argument on day one. Lagos must convert its blue waters into green wealth through three linked priorities: coastal resilience, ocean innovation, and targeted financing.

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    He described resilience measures already under way, including the Great Wall of Lagos and the Omi Èkó Initiative for cleaner lagoon transport. Innovation, he said, would reconfigure commerce and mobility, from data-driven fisheries to low-emission ferries.

    Financing would follow, with the state positioning itself as a stable bet for investors seeking both returns and planetary security.

    Sanwo-Olu stressed that the summit served two purposes.

    First, it would strengthen adaptation measures to protect the city and the wider region.

    Second, it would create a platform where innovators, policymakers, and investors could design business models that preserve the natural balance of the ocean.

    He presented Lagos as proof that economic growth and decarbonisation can advance in tandem, and he framed the blue economy as a continental lifeline rather than a niche sector.

    Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, spoke for the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola.

    He confirmed the federal government reforms to improve maritime governance and environmental standards, with Lagos positioned as the linchpin.

    The minister pledged continued partnership with state and private actors to secure sea lanes, expand sustainable marine industries, and deliver lasting benefits to coastal communities.

    The afternoon of day one ended with the launch of the Lagos State Climate Investment Opportunities Diagnostic (CIOD).

    Produced with the International Finance Corporation and other partners, the report maps investment-ready projects across four sectors: built environment and energy, transportation, solid waste, and water and wastewater. It aligns with the Lagos Climate Action Plan and the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan, targeting a 25 per cent cut in greenhouse-gas emissions by 2035 against a 2020 baseline.

    The CIOD estimates a total requirement of ₦25 trillion, with 81 per cent expected from private sources. Priority projects include grid-scale renewables, rooftop solar on public buildings, light-rail and BRT expansion, waste-to-energy plants, and upgraded wastewater treatment. Enabling instruments range from green bonds and blended finance to public-private partnerships and land-value capture. Recent legislation, such as the Lagos State Electricity Law, gives the state authority over power generation and distribution, clearing a path for large renewable schemes. The report also calls for stronger regulatory frameworks, better climate data systems, and the integration of sustainability into fiscal planning.

    A session on climate finance followed, led by a KPMG expert who dissected the mechanics of mobilising capital for blue initiatives. Drawing on the firm’s global advisory work, the speaker outlined blended finance models, mixing public guarantees with private equity, to de-risk investments in ocean renewables and coastal restoration. Lagos’s regulatory reforms, such as the State Electricity Law granting local control over power markets, were praised as enablers for solar and wind scaling.

    Biodun Coker, a stock market specialist, took the floor to delve into financing’s front lines, focusing on the nascent Lagos Carbon Registry. In partnership with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), the registry aims to verify and trade emission offsets from urban greening and marine conservation. Coker explained the operational nuts and bolts: blockchain-ledgers for transparent crediting, third-party audits to prevent greenwashing, and incentives for smallholders.

    Mr Mosopefolu George, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning also gave a keynote that was followed by a panel including Iyin Aboyeji of Future Africa, Bukola Odoe, head of Exploration and Innovation lab UNDP amongst others which was focused on unlocking private capital for Africa’s Blue Economy.

    A panel on protecting coastal ecosystems closed the first day. Dr Tunde Ajayi of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel (Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Blue Economy), and other speakers examined policy enforcement and community-led conservation. The Oniru of Iru Land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun the second had earlier delivered a keynote on the same theme, arguing that ecosystem protection must include direct investment in local communities to ensure both conservation and prosperity.

    Lagos will be at COP30 not as supplicant, but strategist. Lagos arrives not cap in hand, but blueprint in fist. It’s a city that knows oceans give and take with equal indifference, yet dares to court them anyway. The blue economy, as Wahab and Sanwo-Olu articulated, offers a pathway where Africa’s coasts yield wealth without depletion: $406 billion continent-wide if harnessed right. Yet substance demands scrutiny. The ₦25 trillion ask looms large against naira volatility and investor hesitancy but Lagos is charting a course forward regardless.

    The Lagos energy is best felt in the goodwill message from the representative of the Osun state governor, who quipped, “We draw strength from our big brother as they surge ahead.”

  • Enhancing blue economy through expansion to Eastern ports

    Enhancing blue economy through expansion to Eastern ports

    Nigerian Ports Authority is pursuing the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen economic diversification options through sustainable blue economy to realise the $1trillion economy, writes Group Business Editor, SIMEON EBULU.

    Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, is sustaining conscious steps aimed at improving ship traffic to  the eastern ports and repositioning them for optimum efficiency.

    As part of the Authority’s contribution to boosting the national economy, Dantsoho is working tirelessly to maximise the potentials of Onne and Port Harcourt ports while also reviving the existing ports in Calabar, Warri and other parts of the South South without losing focus on greenfield port projects.

    Proximity to Northern Industrial Clusters

    For years, shipping into Nigeria meant Lagos ports first, everywhere else second. The Eastern Ports- Port Harcourt, Onne, Warri, and Calabar- were left in the shadows despite their proximity to key markets and resource corridors. Despite its potential, weak infrastructure and limited connectivity kept the Eastern ports underused. Lagos absorbed over 90 per cent of maritime traffic while Eastern facilities ran below a third of their capacity.

    But today, that story is beginning to change. Under the leadership of Dantsoho, Eastern ports are being repositioned as a competitive gateway. For shippers, the benefits are obvious- shorter turnaround times, closer access to the South-East and North-Central industrial clusters, lower transportation costs, and the ability to move agricultural and mineral products more efficiently.

    All these are aimed at deepening Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) regime.

    To demonstrate his hands-on approach, Dantsoho embarked on a series of tours focussed on driving investment into the Eastern Ports. These tours have started to yield expressions of interest for Rivers, Calabar, and Burutu Ports. One of these is the recently celebrated call of the wholly Nigerian-owned MV Ocean Dragon at Onne’s West African Container Terminal (WACT) on July 31, 2025.

    With a 349 TEU capacity, the MV Ocean Dragon shall be plying routes across West, Central, and Southern Africa, exemplifying the “Nigeria First” policy and pronouncing Nigeria as a key player in intra African trade. Through these efforts, the NPA is showing its commitment to integrating Nigerian producers with global markets and maximising the immediate benefits of the proximate African trade corridor by water.

    Dantsoho’s management introduced new tariffs, which became effective on March 1, 2025. The tariffs reflect operational costs, while maintaining competitiveness and enhancing the actualisation of the Authority’s 25-year Master Plan which emphasizes automation, cybersecurity and sustainability, including a proposed “Green Craft Acquisition Fund” for IMO-compliant vessels.

    READ ALSO; What does Remi Tinubu want?

    Partnering on exports

    The NPA has continued to pursue strategic partnerships, which are driving growth. For instance, Hapag-Lloyd launched a weekly service at Onne, connecting Eastern Nigeria to global routes and enhancing transshipment under the AfCFTA.

    Another is collaborations with relevant agencies of government, like the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for a 24-hour operations,  aimed not only at reducing cargo release times, but also  curb diversions to neighbouring ports.

    And performance metrics reflect success so far. Records showed that service boat Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) rose 129.3 per cent to 4.58 million tons in 2024. The Eastern Ports have also seen larger vessels berth safely, with stakeholders like Indorama reporting higher export tonnages.

    In anticipation of the growth that this progress growth indicates, the NPA has projected a N1.28 trillion in revenue for 2025, up from N894.86 billion realised last year. And the development in the Eastern Ports has contributed significantly to the projected revenue rise. Buoyed by the results so far obtained, the NPA is in the process of incentivising operators to patronise the other ports, including discounts and streamlined processes for Eastern corridors. And in achieving that, the organization is aligning with the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy which emphasises infrastructure modernization, operational efficiency, and indigenous participation in the maritime sector. Discussions with stakeholders like the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) have begun, focussing on boosting indigenous ownership and short-sea shipping. 

    Driving Economic Diversification

    Apart from building investor’ confidence to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) to viable private sector initiatives, like ship building and repairs, NPA is presently at the heart of the government’s drive to strengthen Nigeria’s economic diversification options through a sustainable blue economy ventures like ship building, ship repairs and other dry dock activities are attracting attention.

    At a recent forum in Lagos, Founder of Starz Marine and Engineering Limited in Rivers State, Greg Ogbeifun, disclosed the firm’s commitment of $350 million through a loan by AfreximBank to facilitate shipbuilding and expansion of its yard, saying this will aid the expansion of the Starz’s shipyard from 500 tons to 10,000 ton, lifting capacity to 120 meter long circle lift, for the purpose of achieving quality ship repair and building which Nigerians normally undertake outside our shores.

    Infrastructure modernisation

    A cornerstone of the NPA’s strategy is significant investment in port infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels and reduce vessel turnaround times.

    Port Harcourt, though historic, was underdeveloped, Onne thrived as an oil and gas base but not for as container-handling, Warri struggled with shallow approaches through Escravos, while Calabar, battled draft restrictions that discouraged major carriers. These barriers created a cycle of neglect and reinforced Lagos’ dominance.

    The port’s authority has equally achieved significant breakthroughs with infrastructural and equipment upgrades and stakeholders’ engagement. Channel dredging and rehabilitation are said to be ongoing at Warri, Onne, and Calabar to accommodate larger ocean going vessels.

    At Onne Port Complex, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with West African Container Terminal (WACT) Nigeria Limited has advanced Terminal ‘B’ expansion (Berths 7 and 8) to 62 per cent completion, with over $110 million invested.

    This upgrade is part of a broader $2.9 billion Onne Port Expansion Phase 4B project which is the largest port investment in Africa over the past decade

    Additionally, a 6,000 metric tonne bitumen tank is nearing completion at Rivers Port Complex, enhancing storage and supporting regional infrastructure needs.

    The NPA has now secured a $1.1 billion facility for comprehensive rehabilitation across the Eastern Ports, inclusive of Onne, Rivers, Calabar and Warri. Key projects include road network integration at Onne’s Berths 9-11, installation of marine fenders authority-wide, and surveys for shore protection at Escravos breakwaters in Warri.

    Navigational aids and buoys have been deployed in Warri and Calabar Pilotage Districts to improve channel marking and safety. These enhancements have led to unprecedented cargo traffic, particularly at Onne, due to improved channel security and reduced attacks on vessels.

    Dredging efforts are also ongoing to increase draught depths, such as targeting 11 meters at Onne and Calabar to handle bigger ships.

    Although Onne has welcomed ships that once avoided the corridor, security patrols across the Niger Delta are supported by partner agencies, thereby reducing piracy and other threats at sea while reassuring international shipping lines of the security of their vessels. On the commercial side, tariff rebates on harbour dues has lowered cost for users of the Eastern ports, while terminal concessions are driving private investment in modern cargo-handling equipment.

    Hopefully through the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail, the North-East would have a direct maritime outlet, where agricultural produce and solid minerals can be exported from. This is exactly what an efficient port system is.

    Furthermore, the, NPA has acquired state-of-the-art harbour crafts, including two 80-tonne Bollard Pull tugboats (M.T. Maikoko and M.T. Da-Opukuro), the first of their kind in Africa to eliminate berthing and sailing delays These vessels, complemented by additional tugboats and pilot cutters, have improved efficiency, with average vessel turnaround time dropping to 5.16 days so far. The Electronic Call-up (Eto) system and Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) have also streamlined operations, boosting export volumes by 60 per emt in some terminals. Opening of ‘Road D’ at Onne has also alleviated logistics bottlenecks, attracting commendations from truckers. That is in addition to several other initiatives that support multimodal transport and align with International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH) standards for port-hinterland connectivity.

    Future outlook

    The NPA’s multifaceted approach —combining infrastructure upgrades, equipment acquisitions, incentives, and partnerships, to improve delivery positions the Eastern Ports as vital economic engines. The Marine and Blue Economy Minister, Gboyega Oyetola, said these efforts promise sustained ease of doing business and blue economy optimization. As transshipment figures from Lekki Deep Seaport rise and trade surpluses grow, the Eastern Ports, with continued focus on security, dredging, and indigenous capacity, are poised for even greater vessel traffic and investment, contributing to Nigeria’s maritime renaissance.

    Succour for Aba manufacturers, Onitsha traders

    Through the ports renewal drive, manufacturers in Aba, traders in Onitsha, and industrial clusters in Nnewi can now route their cargo through the Eastern ports nearest to them, saving time and money. With this new dawn, Onne will strengthen its dominance as the Gulf of Guinea’s offshore logistics hub. Port Harcourt and Calabar can become lifelines to South-East and linkages to Cameroon and Central Africa.

  • ‘Blue economy is key to Nigeria’s growth, potential’

    ‘Blue economy is key to Nigeria’s growth, potential’

    Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, has stressed the need for Nigeria to key into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of the Blue Economy as a catalyst for unlocking the nation’s economic potentials.

    Adeyeye made the call on Thursday while delivering a lecture at the maiden public lecture of the Centre for Blue Economy and Innovation of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State.

    He spoke on the theme: “Imperative of the Blue Economy in Driving Nigeria’s Economic Development.”

    According to him, the Blue Economy presents “an opportunity that can transform Nigeria’s economy into an engine of prosperity through strategic investment, strong governance, and sustainable practices.”

    He noted that the 21st century had opened new frontiers of economic growth, with the Blue Economy standing out as one of the most promising.

    Describing it as the sustainable use of ocean and water resources for growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods while preserving aquatic ecosystems, Adeyeye said Nigeria was strategically positioned to benefit.

    “Nigeria, with its over 853 km coastline, more than 200 nautical miles of exclusive economic zone, navigable inland waterways, and rich marine biodiversity, is uniquely placed to harness these resources. Yet, the sector remains largely underdeveloped,” he said.

    Quoting the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Adeyeye observed that the global blue economy is valued at $2.3 trillion annually, sustaining the livelihoods of over three billion people worldwide.

    Read Also: FG tagets N24bn annual savings from BisonFly initiative

    “Nigeria cannot afford to miss her share of this wealth,” he added.

    He cited Morocco as an example, noting that the country generates revenue from fisheries almost equivalent to Nigeria’s national budget and urged Nigeria to take maximum advantage of its marine resources.

    The NPA chairman listed the key components of the Blue Economy to include: maritime transport, port services, fisheries and aquaculture, tourism and recreation, offshore renewable energy, seabed mining, marine biotechnology, shipbuilding and repair, coastal agriculture, and wetland resources.

    “With our vast coastal lines, offshore wind, tidal, and wave energy currently wasting away, Nigeria can generate cheaper, environmentally friendly, and reliable power for domestic consumption and even export to West African neighbours, thereby earning robust foreign exchange,” Adeyeye stressed.

    Remarking, Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Adekola Falodun, urged stakeholders in the maritime sector to support the government in fully harnessing the Blue Economy initiative.

    Similarly, OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa underscored the importance of shifting attention to ocean resources as land-based resources become increasingly depleted.

    He disclosed that the university had already aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through its School of Maritime Transport and Logistics, designed to produce skilled manpower for the emerging sector.

    “If OAUSTECH is to play a leading role in the development of the Blue Economy in Nigeria, we must collaborate with captains of industry for idea exchange, partnerships, and shared experiences,” Ologunorisa said.

    The VC further advised the Ondo State Government to domesticate Tinubu’s agenda by establishing a Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Resources to drive the development of the state’s vast coastal lines.

    Earlier, Director of OAUSTECH’s Centre for Blue Economy and Innovation, Prof. Funmilola Agbebi said the lecture was an opportunity to explore how Nigeria could balance economic growth, collaboration, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability in harnessing its blue resources.

  • Blue economy key to Nigeria’s growth, potential, says Adeyeye

    Blue economy key to Nigeria’s growth, potential, says Adeyeye

    Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, has stressed the need for Nigeria to key into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of the Blue Economy as a catalyst for unlocking the nation’s economic potential.

    Adeyeye made the call on Thursday while delivering a lecture at the maiden public lecture of the Centre for Blue Economy and Innovation of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State.

    He spoke on the theme: “Imperative of the Blue Economy in Driving Nigeria’s Economic Development.”

    According to him, the Blue Economy presents “an opportunity that can transform Nigeria’s economy into an engine of prosperity through strategic investment, strong governance, and sustainable practices.”

    He noted that the 21st century had opened new frontiers of economic growth, with the Blue Economy standing out as one of the most promising.

    Describing it as the sustainable use of ocean and water resources for growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods while preserving aquatic ecosystems, Adeyeye said Nigeria was strategically positioned to benefit.

    “Nigeria, with its over 853 km coastline, more than 200 nautical miles of exclusive economic zone, navigable inland waterways, and rich marine biodiversity, is uniquely placed to harness these resources. Yet, the sector remains largely underdeveloped,” he said.

    Quoting the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Adeyeye observed that the global blue economy is valued at $2.3 trillion annually, sustaining the livelihoods of over three billion people worldwide.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to miss her share of this wealth,” he added.

    He cited Morocco as an example, noting that the country generates revenue from fisheries almost equivalent to Nigeria’s national budget and urged Nigeria to take maximum advantage of its marine resources.

    The NPA chairman listed the key components of the Blue Economy to include: maritime transport, port services, fisheries and aquaculture, tourism and recreation, offshore renewable energy, seabed mining, marine biotechnology, shipbuilding and repair, coastal agriculture, and wetland resources.

    “With our vast coastal lines, offshore wind, tidal, and wave energy currently wasting away, Nigeria can generate cheaper, environmentally friendly, and reliable power for domestic consumption and even export to West African neighbours, thereby earning robust foreign exchange,” Adeyeye stressed.

    Remarking, Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Adekola Falodun, urged stakeholders in the maritime sector to support the government in fully harnessing the Blue Economy initiative.

    Read Also: Oyetola receives World Bank team as Nigeria set to lead Africa in marine, blue economy

    Similarly, OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, underscored the importance of shifting attention to ocean resources as land-based resources become increasingly depleted.

    He disclosed that the university had already aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through its School of Maritime Transport and Logistics, designed to produce skilled manpower for the emerging sector.

    “If OAUSTECH is to play a leading role in the development of the Blue Economy in Nigeria, we must collaborate with captains of industry for idea exchange, partnerships, and shared experiences,” Ologunorisa said.

    The VC further advised the Ondo State Government to domesticate Tinubu’s agenda by establishing a Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Resources to drive the development of the state’s vast coastal lines.

    Earlier, Director of OAUSTECH’s Centre for Blue Economy and Innovation, Prof. Funmilola Agbebi, said the lecture was an opportunity to explore how Nigeria could balance economic growth, collaboration, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability in harnessing its blue resources.

  • Blue economy a catalyst for sustainable development, say experts

    Blue economy a catalyst for sustainable development, say experts

    …fish import threatens Blue Economy

    …IMION trains journalists on impactful reporting

    Stakeholders on Thursday described the Blue Economy as a catalyst that will boost economic development in the country, calling for more collaboration, purposeful implementation of guidelines.

    The stakeholders, who converged on the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) auditorium for an Executive Course on the Blue Economy for Media Practitioners, held on Wednesday, emphasised that the country’s vast maritime resources hold the key to economic transformation and environmental sustainability.

    They also lamented that the over-reliance on imported fish, shrimps as well as other aquatic edibles was a threat to food security and impedes the growth of the blue economy.

    Participants all agreed there was a need for gender and youth-inclusive policies that would give more women decision-making positions in the various sub-sectors of the blue economy.

    They also called for wider consultation and intentionality in implementing policy decisions such that all MDAs who have roles to play do not feel left behind and, by doing so, become an obstacle towards the growth of the blue economy.

    Presenting a lead paper at the training, Rear Admiral Francis Akpan (rtd), who spoke on Nigeria’s evolving approach to maritime development, noted the concerns of coastal and island countries over global neglect of the Blue Economy and overemphasis on the Green Economy.

    He noted that the oceans, including the high seas recognised as the common heritage of mankind, represent the final frontier for sustainable development, adding that the maritime domain constitutes more than 95 percent of the earth’s biosphere.

    According to him, oceans play a vital role in providing food and livelihoods for billions of people and serve as a major channel for global trade, handling over 80 percent of international shipping.

    Highlighting Nigeria’s legal standing, Akpan noted that the country has been a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) since it entered into force in 1994. He said this grants Nigeria the right to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage marine resources within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which extends 200 nautical miles from its coastline.

    He told participants that the Blue Economy narrative began gaining traction in Nigeria after the 2019 International Maritime Security Conference, eventually leading to the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023. However, he observed that efforts in this sector remain at a pedestrian level, often resembling subsistence activities passed down from previous generations.

    Read Also: RMDB, marine ministry partner to boost maritime, blue economy in West, Central Africa

    According to him, Nigeria’s Blue Economy vision aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14, which promotes the conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources. He added that the country’s strategic thinking draws from the World Bank’s framework of responsible ocean resource utilisation to enhance economies, livelihoods, and ecosystem health.

    Akpan revealed that Nigeria’s maritime domain spanning over 84,000 square nautical miles is becoming increasingly important, with over 5,000 vessels calling at Nigerian ports and jetties annually.

    He projected that these numbers will rise with the ongoing development of infrastructure such as the Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the proposed Ibom and Badagry Deep Sea Ports.

    He further noted that the country’s fisheries sub-sector is multifaceted and remains critical to food security and the economy. With vast inland and coastal waters, Nigeria boasts a thriving fisheries sector that could serve as a cornerstone of its Blue Economy if adequately harnessed.

    However, this potential remains threatened with an average $1.2 billion worth of fish imported annually, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    Continuing, Akpan said the country’s maritime sector faces persistent challenges such as port congestion, shallow channels, and inefficient cargo handling processes, noting that it takes a minimum of four weeks to clear cargo at the country’s ports compared to 8–12 days in Togo, 10–15 days (Benin Republic), and just six hours in Singapore.

    These delays, he said, undermine trade efficiency, advocating investment in port infrastructure and digital technology to ease congestion, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance operational transparency.

    Although Nigeria is Africa’s largest ship-owning nation, Akpan said its global share was under one per cent. Maritime transport contributes just 1.09 per cent to GDP, but with better coordination across ministries, it could rise significantly up to 20 percent if issues like security, funding gap and environmental threats are addressed, he said.

    To unlock the potential, Akpan recommended alignment with global frameworks like SDG 14 and UNCLOS. Projects like deep-sea port development and modernised fisheries infrastructure are vital to increasing yields, reducing waste, and driving sustainable economic growth.

    In his address, Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd), emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping public discourse, influencing policy, and promoting environmental stewardship in ocean governance.

    Udofia described the course as a timely intervention to empower journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to report accurately and meaningfully on marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, blue energy, and other key sectors of the Blue Economy.

    He stressed that the oceans were increasingly threatened by climate change and unsustainable practices, challenging media practitioners to evolve from mere reporters to storytellers, watchdogs, and agents of change capable of highlighting both challenges and opportunities within the maritime domain.

  • RMDB, marine ministry partner to boost maritime, blue economy in West, Central Africa

    RMDB, marine ministry partner to boost maritime, blue economy in West, Central Africa

    In a major move to reshape the maritime and blue economy landscape of West and Central Africa, the management of the Regional Maritime Development Bank (RMDB) has engaged key officials of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, along with representatives from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), in a high-level meeting held in Abuja.

    The meeting aimed to align national and regional strategies for maritime sector growth and infrastructure development.

    President and CEO of RMDB, Adeniran Aderogba, revealed that the Bank’s strategic focus includes the establishment of a national shipping carrier, financing for cabotage vessels, development of shipbuilding and repair facilities, modernisation of ports, improvement of inland waterways, and the integration of multimodal logistics systems.

    Aderogba emphasized that these initiatives are critical to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in the subregion.

    The session featured a detailed presentation of the Bank’s implementation strategy and priority areas, sparking constructive discussions and stakeholder contributions geared toward institutional collaboration and sectoral growth.

    “At RMDB, we envision a maritime industry that drives sustainable economic growth, regional trade competitiveness, and job creation. Our implementation plan addresses critical gaps in maritime infrastructure and capacity, with a sharp focus on building a national carrier to assert Nigeria’s presence in international shipping, financing cabotage vessels to promote indigenous participation, and investing in shipbuilding and repair yards that reduce capital flight. This is not just about financing projects; it’s about creating a legacy of maritime excellence, resilience, and regional integration. Collaboration with all relevant government agencies and private sector actors is central to our mission,” he said.

    Read Also: Why African wealth remains trapped underground, by Maritime Bank

    The meeting brought together key maritime and economic development stakeholders including officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

    Participants commended the RMDB for its visionary plan and reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with the Bank in achieving shared national objectives. The meeting also identified areas of potential synergy, particularly in policy alignment, infrastructure investment, regulatory support, and access to finance for local maritime operators. An inter-ministerial committee is to be set up to provide immediate policy support for projects implementation.

    With the RMDB expected to play a catalytic role in mobilising financing and technical expertise across West and Central Africa, the meeting marks a pivotal moment in the drive to reposition Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy as a pillar of sustainable development and regional leadership.