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  • Oyetola’s landmark agreement in maritime sector

    Oyetola’s landmark agreement in maritime sector

    • By Lukmon Adetunji

    Stakeholders and industry leaders in the nation’s maritime sector have commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his exemplary leadership that led to the signing of the historic agreement on Minimum Conditions of Service for labour in Nigeria’s Shipping Industry. The landmark agreement, which was signed on Friday, August 23, is a significant move towards improving Nigeria’s maritime industry, while supporting the growth of the nation’s marine and blue economy.

     Interestingly, it comes after 20 years of struggle, wait and failed negotiations for the minimum standards for the conditions of service for workers in the shipping industry. The maritime sector is a cornerstone of the country’s economy and key to the global economy, and the workers play a critical role in sustaining this industry, and the historic agreement demonstrates a firm commitment to a fair, sustainable and dignified Marine and Blue Economy, which recognises the importance of workers’ rights, safety and welfare.

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who witnessed the singing, underscored this important role played by the nation’s maritime sector, noting that the agreement was a culmination of extensive dialogue among stakeholders.

     He further stated that the agreement showed what could be achieved through collaboration and mutual respect, paving the way for a more united and resilient maritime sector. Oyetola emphasised that the signing was a reflection of the trajectory of the President Bola Tinubu administration and a testament to the federal government’s collective commitment to uphold the rights and welfare of workers in the industry. The Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) was signed among the Federal Government represented by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Shipping Companies and Agencies, Clearing and Freight Forwarding Employers Association of Nigeria (SCAFEA), and Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN).

    In his remarks, the Minister said that this was in line with the four–year Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Implementation Plan for both the Ministry and the agencies under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu administration, which included increasing the operational efficiency in handling imports and exports of cargoes. He added that by establishing this minimum condition of service, the Federal Government is achieving four critical things: Enhancing worker welfare, promoting safety standards, encouraging fair competition, and fostering trust and cooperation. On enhancing worker’s welfare and promoting safety standards, Oyetola said, “We guarantee that every worker in the shipping sector enjoys decent working conditions, fair remuneration, job security, and access to necessary welfare benefits. Through this agreement, we commit to prioritising safety and health standards, ensuring that workers are provided with the necessary training and resources to operate in secure environments.”

     Similarly, in encouraging fair competition, the Minister noted, “A uniform standards will guarantee level-playing field among employers in the maritime sector thereby discouraging exploitation and promoting ethical practices in the industry.” Oyetola, who thanked stakeholders and industry leaders, including the Executive Secretary /CEO and Management of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, the leaderships of both Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), the Shipping Agencies, Clearing and Forwarding Employers Association (SACFEA), workers for their contribution to the development of this agreement. “I enjoin the labour unions to remain steadfast and vibrant in advocating for the rights of workers by ensuring compliance with the agreed standards. Government will on its own part continue to provide oversight by providing the enabling environment for compliance and continuous improvement,” he added.

     Stakeholders in the maritime industry were full of praises for the Oyetola for providing forthright leadership as Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. In his welcome remarks, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NSC, Pius Akutah, attributed the signing of the MoU to the exemplary leadership of the Minister, while commending him for his love for the welfare of workers, and for providing the leadership that led to the signing of the historic agreement. “The minister has pushed us to get to this level and I want to take this opportunity to commend your Chief of Staff for pushing us to achieve excellence via teamwork and collaboration,” Akutah said.

    Read Also: Tinubu seeks to boost Nigerian economy with September China visit

    Similarly, the President-General of MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju, thanked the Minister for gracing the occasion, noting that his “support and commitment to the welfare of maritime workers are invaluable and contributed in no small measure to the success story of today.”

    Also, the President of SACFEA, Boma Alabi, SAN, in her remarks thanked the Minister for his resolve in bringing together all stakeholders and groups to reach a successful conclusion.

    She pointed out that with the new agreement, “the minimum standard of conditions of service for workers in the shipping industry is the highest in any industry in Nigeria,” while stating that the agreement will spur progress in the nation’s maritime sector. “I truly believe that this is a social partnership for progress. The most valuable asset we have is our human assets which are our workers. We can’t operate without our workers and we are so glad that we have set a minimum standard that every player in the industry must adhere to. I am happy to announce that the 200,000 standard is the highest in any industry in the country,” Alabi added.

    With the establishment of the minimum conditions of service, the FG is enhancing workers’ welfare to enjoy improved working conditions, fair remuneration, job security and access to important welfare benefits. Akutah encouraged stakeholders to key into the standard to enhance workers efficiency and productivity.

    • Adetunji is a Lagos based  public affairs analysts

  • Oyetola welcomes Osun PDP leader, thousands of supporters into APC 

    Oyetola welcomes Osun PDP leader, thousands of supporters into APC 

    …Adeleke’s compatriot dispel rumours defection to PDP, backs Tinubu, Oyetola

    A strong leader of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun state, Kayode Oduoye, on Sunday, August 25, led thousands of members of the ruling party into the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    Oduoye, who hailed from Ikirun in Ifelodun local government area of Osun state dumped Governor Ademola Adeleke for APC, citing that the opposition has strong internal democracy and democratic tenets that impact in people’s lives. 

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola described more defection into APC as a continued unity and harmony, saying, “the party is resolute to return to government in the state. 

    Oduoye said his decision to join APC was informed by its democratic tenets and internal democracy that define the engagement of its loyalists. 

    Read Also: We have stabilised security in Birnin Gwari, environs for six months – Gov Sani

    Meanwhile, in a separate event, the former envoy of Mexico who is Adeleke’s compatriot, Adejare Bello denied dumping APC for PDP in Ede. 

    Bello who is also a former speaker of Osun House of Assembly, during APC meeting in Ede on Sunday said: “I want to dissuade insinuations that I am hobnobbing with PDP because the incumbent governor in Osun State is from Ede. I am not leaving APC for PDP.” 

    He boasted of the capacity of President Bola Tinubu to deliver an enviable nation for all Nigerians and also admonished Nigerians to be patient with his policies. 

    Adejare lauded Oyetola and assure the people of the state that APC will take over the state in 2026. 

  • NPA chairman Adeyeye visits Oyetola

    NPA chairman Adeyeye visits Oyetola

    The newly appointed Board Chairman of Nigeria Port Authority (NPA) Senator Dayo Adeyeye has visited the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy H.E Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola in his office in Abuja. 

    It was first time the new Chairman, who is also the National Chairman of South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA), will be visiting his supervising Minister following his appointment. 

    The familiarisation visit based on the political antecedent and class of the duo afforded the new Chairman the opportunity of discussing his readiness for his new responsibility.

    Briefing newsmen shortly after the visit, Adeyeye said: “We had productive discussion about our mission to reposition the Nigeria Port Authority for the benefit of all Nigerians. 

    Read Also: Osun govt defends Oyetola over alleged award of same contract three times

    “Our commitment to this cause is resolute, as we aim to enhance the port’s operations in the best interest of the citizens and our dear country Nigeria”.

    Adeyeye was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to lead the Board of NPA from July 13, 2024 in a move hailed by many as reflecting the President’s choice of competence and diligence over mediocrity and his commitment to rewarding loyalty and hard-work.

  • Osun govt defends Oyetola over alleged award of same contract three times

    Osun govt defends Oyetola over alleged award of same contract three times

    Osun State Government has debunked an allegation against ex-governor Adegboyega Oyetola that he awarded same contract three times.

    The Nation recalled that an online media outlet, Sahara Reporters, claimed that Oyetola breached 2015 Osun State Procurement Act by awarding same contract three times for the same rehabilitation of road, which totalled N700.2million at N233.4million each.

    The state government through the General Manager, Public Procurement Agency, Babatunde Adesina, described the news as unfounded and hinged it on technical hitches on the website of the agency.

    Read Also: Tinubu has good intentions to turn around Nigeria – Oluwo tells youths

    A statement by Adesina said: “We seek to correct certain misconceptions we noticed in the counter-reactions to the Sahara Reporters story. Our goal is to set the records straight. The old Osun State OCDS Portal is www.ocdsosun.org.ng. The new Osun State e-Procurement System is egp.osunstate.gov.ng.

    The two portals were created during the administration of former governor Oyetola. Bon Maximus Company was engaged as consultant to manage the new e-procurement system (egp.osunstate.gov.ng) by the same Oyetola administration.

  • Oyetola to position Nigeria as major seafood exporter

    Oyetola to position Nigeria as major seafood exporter

    • Norway seeks fish inclusion in duty-free baske

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, at the weekend pledged to leverage the nation’s abundant marine resources and positions it for a prominent role in the global seafood market.

    Oyetola, who gave the pledge during a one-day interactive workshop with stakeholders and regulatory authorities involved in stock fish and seafood imports and exports trade in Nigeria, said the country is a significant player in the global seafood market, with a large demand for fish and fisheries products, adding however, that the country faced a substantial demand-supply gap, with a significant portion of her seafood needs met through imports. “Nevertheless, we have immense potential in the Blue Economy, with a thriving fishing industry, abundant marine resources, and a strategic location,” the minister said.

    Also, Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Embassy to Nigeria, Svein Baera, commended the Federal Government’s “150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities” and sought the inclusion of stock fish on the list considering its rich nutritious value and contribution to the health of the people. “This action is undeniably positive,” he said.

    Commenting on the zero import duty on stock fish request by the Norwegian Seafood Council’s request, he said: “The ministry recognises fish as a vital part of the Nigerian diet and will seek its inclusion in zero-duty programmes. However, our ultimate goal remains to grow Nigeria’s fish production.”

    According to Oyetola, Nigeria’s seafood production process for export involves an intricate value chain, starting with capture fisheries, where artisanal and industrial fleets harvest a diverse range of species, including shellfish (shrimp, lobsters, crabs), snails, sole fish, croaker, and others from the country’s territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone.

    “Aquaculture has also played a significant role in increasing seafood supply to meet growing national and global demand, with catfish being the most prominent aquaculture product for export,” he added.

    Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola , in a paper, entitled: “The Potential of Nigeria’s Seafood Industry: A Focus on Sustainability and Growth,” the minister underscored the immense potential of the sector to drive economic development, enhance food security, and create jobs across the country.

    Read Also: Cholera: Oyetola’s ex-aide chides Osun over ‘poor’ response

    “Nigeria’s strategic location and rich marine resources provide a solid foundation for this ambitious goal,” he said.

    The gap between high domestic demand for fish and lower domestic production, necessitating, he said, “presents a significant opportunity for growth across the entire seafood value chain, encompassing capture fisheries, aquaculture, processing, packaging, and transportation.”

    The minister emphasized the government’s priority to grow domestic fish production. “We’re actively seeking cooperation and partnerships to improve fish production in Nigeria and the Norwegian Seafood Council’s stability makes them a valuable partner for us,” he said.

    On encouraging fish import companies to invest in local production, Oyetola explained, “Fish importation is a big business, and the government is encouraging, or better yet, compelling those involved to also invest in local fish production.

    “We’re reviewing the fish import quota process to incentivize investment in domestic production. The goal is to gradually decrease imports and increase local production. We have abundant resources to produce fish, and the government wants to deepen local production for the benefit of our people and the economy. This will position us to become a major exporter of fish ourselves.”

    He said the creation of the dedicated Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy exemplifies the government’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in fish production and transforming Nigeria into a major seafood exporter. “This commitment extends beyond mere production increases,” the minister stated.

    Oyetola stressed the crucial role of sustainable practices in ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems, aligning perfectly with the growing global demand for responsibly sourced seafood.

    He acknowledged the valuable contributions of partners such as the Norwegian Seafood Council in capacity development and food security initiatives. He however called for even greater collaboration between the government, private sector stakeholders, and international partners. “Through a unified effort, Nigeria has the potential to unlock its vast marine resources and emerge as a leading force in the global seafood industry, ensuring a prosperous, sustainable, and globally competitive sector for generations to come.”

    Earlier in his speech, Ambassador Baera commended the strong record of cooperation between Nigeria and Norway during a seafood seminar.

     “This conference addressed the crucial issue of supporting women-led businesses in Nigeria, specifically focusing on facilitating their export of goods to other African nations. The UNDP is leading this commendable initiative, and the Permanent Secretary himself delivered an address at the event. This important engagement is the reason for his delayed arrival, and we are pleased to have him join us now.”

    Baera expressed his support for the Federal Government’s recent decision to establish a duty-free window for specific food items.

    The Ambassador focused his remarks on the importance of stockfish within the context of the seminar. “This initiative holds particular significance for many Nigerian families facing food insecurity. Stock fish serves as a vital source of protein at an affordable price. Unfortunately, recent currency fluctuations have negatively impacted affordability for many families. Therefore, the inclusion of stock fish on the duty-free list would be a highly beneficial measure,” the envoy said.

    Fisheries Consultant to the Norwegian Seafood Council, Mrs. Cheke Abiodun Oritsejemine, amplified the push for zero duty on stock fish. “Stockfish is one of the cheapest sources of protein available. Over five million Nigerians rely on importing, buying, and transporting this product,” she said.

    Oritsefemiro also addressed backward integration in fish production. “The Norwegian Seafood Council is ready to assist Nigeria in boosting fish farm exports. We’re working to remove the purported ban on Nigerian fish farm products in the EU and Americas.

    “We began training programs in 2022 for fisheries officers and aquaculture farmers to address quality assurance, sustainability, and current standards in fish farming. Part of our social responsibility is to educate stakeholders involved in stock fish import on the regulations to ensure compliance,” she said.

    Oritsefemiro concluded by attributing the drop in stock fish imports to currency exchange rates. “Stockfish is a necessity for many Nigerians. If it becomes too expensive, people won’t be able to afford it. This is why we’re urging the Nigerian government to include stock fish in the zero-duty program for the next six months,” she said.

  • Oyetola’s leadership will dismantle political charlatans, says ex-aide

    Oyetola’s leadership will dismantle political charlatans, says ex-aide

    • Akande, Basiru others adopt former governor as Osun APC leader

    Following the adoption of Minister of Blue and Marine Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, as All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Osun State by Chief Bisi Akande, National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru and others, ex-aide, Dr. Siji Olamiju, has said the ex-governor’s influence would dismantle the influence of political charlatans in the state.

    The leadership of APC in Osun State, during a stakeholders’ meeting, in a communique signed by the state Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, said Pa Akande advised party leaders to work for the strengthening of APC ahead of 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    It was stated that “the National Secretary of APC, Senator Basiru, moved the motion and it was seconded by Pa. Gbadebo Ajao. Party leaders and stakeholders unanimously adopted Oyetola as the leader of the party in the state.”

    Reacting to the development, the former Special Adviser to Oyetola on Public Health, Dr. Olamiju, said the development within APC is a beacon of hope because it comes at a time Osun APC is seeking to consolidate its influence and strategise for future elections.

    Read Also: Oyetola outlines plans for NIWA, others

    He said: “Oyetola’s capacity and leadership will be instrumental in exploring all avenues to secure resounding electoral victories in the forthcoming 2026 and 2027 elections. I urge party faithful and stakeholders to rally behind him with unwavering support. “Oyetola’s leadership will effectively dismantle the influence of political charlatans and clear the path for APC’s triumphant return to power in Osun State.

    “This development is a strong signal of the party’s readiness to overcome internal challenges and present a formidable front in the political arena. As the party gears up for the next electoral cycle, the reaffirmed leadership is poised to play a crucial role in steering the APC towards achieving its goals.”

  • Oyetola outlines plans for NIWA, others

    Oyetola outlines plans for NIWA, others

    • Minister inaugurates agency’s projects

    Projects that will enhance the operational capabilities and safety standards of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) were inaugurated yesterday by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy  Adegboyega Oyetola.

    It was during his one day trip to the NIWA headquarters in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.

    Oyetola was received by a NIWA team led by its Managing Director Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji.

    Oyetola spoke on the critical role of the maritime sector in improving Nigeria’s balance of trade, strengthening the naira, and creating employment.

    “The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is determined to maximize the comparative advantages our maritime resources present, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.

    A key achievement celebrated during the visit was the long-awaited Water Transportation Code. This new regulatory framework is expected to significantly standardise water transportation, minimise accidents, and provide a structured environment for potential investors.

    The minister praised members of  NIWA’s management for their efforts in bringing this vital code to fruition.

    The projects inaugurated include 15  boats of varying capacities and purposes, designed to enhance surveillance, safety enforcement, and emergency response on Nigeria’s waterways. Notably, the fleet comprises three surveillance boats, five safety enforcement boats, a gun patrol boat, a 62-seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace traditional wooden canoes, three water ambulances, and two hydrographic survey boats equipped with multi-beam echo sounders.

    “These initiatives fulfill our commitment to ensuring our inland waterways are well-utilised for both cargo shipment and passenger transportation,” Oyetola said.

    He also pledged to address both internal and external challenges impeding NIWA’s operations, ensuring continuous improvement and expansion of navigable waterways.

    On the ministry’s plans, the minister explained that his goal is to increase navigable waterways by at least 2,000 kilometers through comprehensive dredging. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to finalize the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), which aims to support the development of the maritime sector.

    The minister called upon the private sector to invest in and partner with the government, leveraging the numerous opportunities within the maritime industry to foster sustainable development.

    “We will continue to create an enabling environment, develop supportive policies, and offer necessary assistance to grow the Inland Waterways segment,” he said.

    Kogi  State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, represented by his deputy, Salifu Joel, hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing the right person as NIWA’s MD.

    He said: “When we were coming here, our people asked where we were going, I told them we were going to a NIWA’s event. They asked, ‘which one is NIWA?’ This means until now, no one knew NIWA. But we know NIWA now because the President has appointed the right person that is making impact.”

    Read Also;Oyetola to inspect, commission projects by NIWA

    NIWA MD Oyebamiji noted the minister’s support and guidance in driving organizational reforms and enhancing operational efficiency. He outlined the agency’s proactive measures, including the implementation of education grants, promotion letters, and medical packages for staff members, to boost morale and productivity.

    Oyebamiji also highlighted NIWA’s initiatives in public engagement, emergency response, and enforcement, culminating in the launch of the first phase of water marshal initiatives. These efforts, coupled with the unveiling of the Transportation Code, he said, underscore NIWA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of inland water transportation.

    The Permanent Secretary,  Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi, commended the NIWA management for the feat achieved so far and encouraged it to do more. He also assured NIWA of the ministry’s support in actualising its mandate.

    Oyetola consequently inaugurated the newly-completed projects, marking a significant step forward in the development of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

  • Oyetola: we’ve raised Marine revenue by 92 per cent

    Oyetola: we’ve raised Marine revenue by 92 per cent

    Two key agencies with the Marine and Blue Economy ministry raised their revenue profile by 92 per cent, Minister Adegboyega Oyetola said yesterday.

    According to him, the earnings by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) grew from N126,359,074,742 in the first quarter of last year to N242.811 billion in the first quarter of this year.

    The minister attributed the success to the far-reaching reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and being implemented by his ministry.

    Oyetola spoke yesterday while presenting his ministerial scorecard as part of activities marking the first year of the Tinubu Administration.

    He gave a breakdown of the revenue growth by the four agencies in his ministry, including the NPA, NIMASA, Nigerian Shipper Council (NSC) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

    Read Also; Major shake-up as IGP appoints AIG Longe as Force Secretary

    Oyetola said: “We have been able to ramp up revenue to the government in the last year and we are poised to do more.

    “A comparison of Quarter 1 of 2023 against Quarter 1 of 2024 revenue performance across the agencies reveals a 92 per cent increase.

    “In 2023, the NPA generated N82,987,439,908 while it generated N170,493,192,630 in the Q1 of 2024.

    “NIMASA in 2023 generated N37,405,830,219 while in the Q1 2024, the revenue generated was N62,154,237,671

    “The Nigerian Shipper Council (NSC) which generated N4,878,647,275 in the Q1 of 2023 experienced N8,675,726,282 revenue generation in the Q1 of 2024.

    “The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), recorded N1,087,157,340 in the Q1 of 2023 while in the Q1 2024, the revenue generated was N1,488,588,802

    “Overall, compared to last year where in Q1, the entire sector generated N126,359,074,742 in Q1 of 2024, the revenue generated was N242,811,745,385.

    “So, the sector witnessed N116,452,670,643 revenue growth compared to the Q1 of the previous year which is a 92 per cent increase in revenue generated.”

    He attributed the growth in revenue generation to an increase in vessel calling at the ports and other things.

    Oyetola said: “The increase in revenue performance has largely been due to a 10 per cent increase in the number of vessels using our ports due to strategic investments in port infrastructure in the last one-year, mooring boats, patrol vessels and dredging of the port’s channels. We have also tightened revenue assurance by deploying technology.

    “Revenue generation is critical to us and that is why we commissioned revenue enhancement studies focused on the ministry, its departments, and agencies.

    “The objective is to further identify and block leakages while identifying recommendations to expand current revenue sources.

    “Automation of revenue collection processes to eliminate bottlenecks and enhance transparency and accountability is also our goal.

    “We are also deploying revenue assurance technologies to ensure accurate and complete billings in line with established contracts and services rendered.

    “We would ensure the efficient utilisation of existing assets through concessions to the private sector and public-private partnerships as required.”

    Oyetola explained that funds have been sourced for the comprehensive modernisation and reconstruction of Tin Can Island and Apapa Port Complex.

    He said discussions were ongoing to seek funds for the rehabilitation of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar port complexes.

    The minister said the port modernisation would generate at least, 20,000 jobs, decongest the ports, and improve ease of doing business.

    Oyetola said the government was considering the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model for a national shipping line to protect the nation’s economic interest.

    To protect the inland waterways, the minister also said the ministry would procure three water ambulances for areas where accidents were prevalent.

    He said a national policy on blue economy will be unveiled by year’s end.

    Oyetola said the reforms initiated by the ministry and the deployment of modern technology led to an increase in revenue.

    The minister also explained that the proposed shipping line would boost the economy and give opportunity to ship owners and others in the sector to thrive.

    Oyetola added: “Efforts are in top gear to create a national carrier based on a PPP arrangement that will entail very limited equity participation by the government.

    “This will reduce capital flight, create shipping jobs, and enable Nigerian ship owners to benefit more from the global maritime shipping trade through Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) of cargo onboard.

    “The point of a shipping line is not to bring back the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL). The issue is that we should have a shipping line.

    “We realised that we are losing so much in the area of freight because we don’t have a shipping line that would compete with most of the other shipping lines in other parts of the world.

    “So, the intention is to have PPP, the government may decide to have token equity or it could be a purely private partnership.

    “We are not looking at bringing back the moribund or liquidated NNSL. I don’t believe the government should be in business.

    “The government will create an enabling environment for business to thrive. The failure of the first line was because NNSL was purely run by the government and it died a natural death.

    “We should allow the private sector people that are trained for business to drive business.

    “So, we are looking at a partnership perhaps between government and private or private-private but we need to have a line that will fly our own flag and enjoy the opportunity of not only participating in freight but also participating in bringing import to our country.

    “If we have our own line, we are entitled to about 40 per cent of import coming to our country. So, that is the kind of thing we are looking at and not NNSL that is liquidated.”

    For the safety of the inland waterways, he said: “Deployment of Water Ambulances – we have deployed three water ambulances for prompt search and rescue operations on the inland waterways. This will reduce fatalities whenever accidents occur on our inland waters.

    “The issue of water ambulance is a pilot scheme is meant to take care of specific areas and we are going to buy more to cover the entire country but there are specific places where accidents are very prevalent, so we want to ensure that these three ambulances are deployed to take care of those areas where we have been having lots of accident.

    “The intention is to ensure that we have enough to go around the entire country to cover our inland waterways.”

    The minister also said in line with its key performance indicator, the ministry had initiated consultations with relevant bodies to reduce, by the end of the year, the number of agencies at the seaports to a maximum of even to fast-track port processes.

    The minister said the extension of the continental shelf will add more to Nigeria’s marine resources, saying: “We have an exclusive economic zone of over 200 nautical miles, and 10, 000 kilometres of inland waterways capable of supporting a vibrant intra-regional trade.

    “We are blessed with strategic navigational routes linking Africa with North and South America, Europe, and Asia, making the shipping industry potentially a major driver of our country’s economy.

    “Let me hasten to add that the recent expansion of our continental maritime domain came at the right time. Here, we must commend Mr. President on the work of the Presidential Committee on Nigeria’s Extended Continental Shelf Project.”

    “The expansion gave us an additional 16,300 square kilometers which is six times the size of Lagos State. This has no doubt added more to the marine resources base of Nigeria.”

  • NPA, NIMASA, others under me increased revenue by 92% -Oyetola

    NPA, NIMASA, others under me increased revenue by 92% -Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola said the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and three agencies under his ministry have increased revenue generation by 92 per cent. 

    The others are the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA), the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). 

    He said the earnings of the agencies have grown from N126.359billion in the first quarter of 2023 to N242. 811billion in the first quarter of 2024.

    He said with reforms being put in place by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Marine and Blue Economy may generate about 20,000 jobs. 

    Oyetola, who made the disclosures at the sectoral briefing on his first year in office, said the extension of the continental shelf will increase the marine resources of the country. 

    He gave insights into how his ministry has driven the revenue generation of its agencies. 

    He said apart from investments in port infrastructure, the deployment of technology has tightened revenue assurance. 

    According to him: “We have been able to achieve a ramp up of revenue to government in the last one year and we are poised to do more.

    Read Also: Abbas, Oyetola seek regulatory agency for shipping

    ” A comparison of Quarter 1 of 2023 against Quarter 1 of 2024 revenue performance across the Agencies reveals a 92% increase.

    “This feat was made possible through some of the deliberate steps we took upon assumption of office. For instance, in December 2023, we held a stakeholders’ engagement to examine the challenge of extortion and illegal checkpoints on the port access roads. 

    “The increase in revenue performance has largely been due to a 10% increase in the number of vessels calling our ports due to strategic investments in port infrastructure in the last one-year, mooring boats, patrol vessels and dredging of the port’s channels. We have also tightened revenue assurance by deploying technology.”

    The Minister said the extension of continental shelf will add more to Nigeria’s marine resources. 

    He added:” We have an exclusive economic zone of over 200 nautical miles, and 10, 000 kilometres of inland waterways, capable of supporting a vibrant intra-regional trade. 

    “We are blessed with strategic navigational routes linking Africa with North and South America, Europe, and Asia, making the shipping industry potentially a major driver of our country’s economy. 

    “Let me hasten to add that the recent expansion of our continental maritime domain came at the right time. Here, we must commend Mr. President on the work of the Presidential Committee on Nigeria Extended Continental Shelf Project.

    ” The expansion gave us additional 16,300 square kilometers which is six times the size of Lagos State. This has no doubt added more to the marine resources base of Nigeria.” 

  • Abbas, Oyetola seek regulatory agency for shipping

    Abbas, Oyetola seek regulatory agency for shipping

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen and Minister of Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola have stressed the need to establish a regulatory agency that will regulate the shipping industry in Nigeria.

    Both the Speaker and the Minister spoke just as Shipping Line Association of a Nigeria said such an agency will help strengthen the industry and save it from collapse.

    Speaking at a public hearing on a bill to repeal and re-enact the Shippers’ Council and Economic Regulatory Bill, Abbas said the move to establish the agency was geared toward enhancing economic growth, development, and diversification, as well as strengthening the new ministry.

    He said the re-enactment seeks to ensure that the proposed agency establishes an economic regulatory framework for effective and efficient regulation of commercial and related activities in the shipping and port sectors and to create an enabling environment for private sector participation in the provision and operation of regulated services in Nigeria, amongst others.

    He said: “The amended bill encompasses critical provisions addressing several key areas essential for the effective functioning of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.

    “It details the structure and responsibilities of the management and staff, establishing a clear governance framework that defines roles and qualifications to ensure competent oversight.

    “The bill lays out financial provisions, specifying guidelines for the allocation, management, and auditing of funds, which is crucial for maintaining financial integrity and providing the Council with the necessary resources to perform its duties.

    “The bill also addresses offenses and penalties, outlining specific non-compliance issues and their corresponding penalties”

    While canvassing the need to establish the regulatory agency, Oyetola said it would improve the nation’s economy.

    Represented by his Permanent Secretary, Oloruntola Olufemi, the Minister said it would be a welcome development if the bill became an act.

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    The Chairman of the House Committee on Shipping Services, Abdulsamad Dasuki promised to provide the legislative framework that would allow the bill to become an act.

    “This proposal is aimed at providing the regulatory framework aimed at providing the enabling environment in Nigeria.”

    In their presentation, the Shipping Line Association of Nigeria made a strong case for the establishment of the agency, saying it would improve efficiency and lower cost.

    Chairman of the Association, Barr Boma Alabi (SAN) said that any act that will improve efficiency, lower cost, and reduce the bottleneck that we currently face will be most welcome.

    Boma said the Nigeria Port cost the country twice as much as others in the region, such as the Benin Republic, adding that there was a need to ensure that shopping businesses did not move away from Nigeria.

    “We must be more efficient, and we welcome this regulatory agency that will be created to make things more efficient.

    “We have expressed our concern internally and externally, and this committee, which has been involved in this process, must work on some areas of concern.

    “There are aspects that should be expunged, like sections 40, 42, 52, and a few others; we understand the reason behind this.

    “We need to put in some checks and balances so that those in the saddle will not abuse it.”

    The public hearing was jointly organised by the House Committee on Shipping Services, Port and Harbor, Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration in Abuja.