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  • Oyetola drops Gov ambition, urges APC aspirants to eschew bitter politics

    Oyetola drops Gov ambition, urges APC aspirants to eschew bitter politics

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola has dropped his governorship ambition ahead of the 2026 governorship election scheduled for August 7th, 2026. 

    Oyetola, who served as Governor between 2018 and 2022 lost his re-election bid to the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ademola Adeleke, and was later appointed as the minister. 

    There had been speculations that Oyetola may contest for a second term bid with the National Secretary of APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru; the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji; Prince Dotun Babayemi, Senator Jide Omoworare, Chairman of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, Kunle Adegoke, SAN, and Professor of Mathematics from the United States of America (USA), Rafiu Durodoye vying to fly the party’s ticket. 

    But Oyetola in a meeting at Tinubu/Shettima Campaign office, which he co-presided over with APC chair, Tajudeen Lawal, Chairman of Elders’ Caucus, Chief Sola Akinwumi, stated that returning APC to Osun government in 2026 is not negotiable. 

    While addressing leaders of the party, Oyetola said he has relinquished his gubernatorial ambition and wished the APC aspirants well in the primary contest. 

    According to him: “We have qualified, competent and people of outstanding track records as aspirants contesting for the governorship election and this is a unique selling proposition to feast on and we will continue to complement the federal government’s efforts on all fronts.” 

    Read Also: Oyetola vows to end fish importation, unveils plan for local production

    Oyetola tasked the governorship aspirants  to embrace peace and be their brother’s keepers by avoiding a campaign of calumny, bitterness and politics of acrimony.

    He vowed that no legitimate efforts would be spared to return the APC to power, noting that the APC is formidable, vibrant and potent to unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke. 

    Commenting on the moves of the coalition against President Bola Tinubu, he said the coast is clear for the re-election of Tinubu, saying the coalition is never a threat to the reelection bid of the President come 2027. 

    He asserted that the coalition of the opposition parties was never a threat saying the moves were built on political conspiracy and vendetta, saying “It is crystal clear that the coalition is drifting to collapse. This has no iota of effect on us particularly in Osun. We knew this since it is the same TOP that metamorphosed to Omoluabi and later ADC. We are resolute to come victorious in the future elections and this is incontestable”

  • Oyetola vows to end fish importation, unveils plan for local production

    Oyetola vows to end fish importation, unveils plan for local production

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has vowed to end Nigeria’s dependence on fish importation by aggressively boosting local fish production.

    Speaking at a high-level consultative meeting with fisheries cooperative groups in Abuja on Wednesday, Oyetola outlined a bold vision aimed at transforming the nation’s aquaculture sector into a powerhouse of food security, employment, and export competitiveness.

    He said, “Nigeria must chart a new course towards self-sufficiency in fish production,” Oyetola emphasised that the Federal Government is fully committed to supporting the fisheries and aquaculture subsector through policy, technical support, and financial inclusion.

    “We will scale up domestic fish production, reduce dependency on imports, and reposition the sector for sustainable growth,” he said.

    READ ALSO: 2Baba, Annie didn’t manage their marriage well – Baba Fryo

    The meeting, convened by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, brought together leaders and members of major fisheries and aquaculture associations, including the Fisheries Cooperative Federation of Nigeria (FCFN), Tilapia Aquaculture Developers Association of Nigeria (TADAN), Catfish Farmers Association of Nigeria (CAFAN), Women in Fish Farming and Aquaculture, and the Practicing Farmers Association of Nigeria.

    The minister also announced that the Ministry is intensifying efforts to support women and youth in the fishing sector, stating that start-up grants and other empowerment initiatives are already in the pipeline.

    He said this move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises youth engagement and economic diversification.

    “Increasing youth participation in aquaculture is not only vital for food production but also a strategic solution to reducing unemployment and we are committed to ensuring that young people and women are not left behind in this transformation,” he said

    During the interactive session, participants raised a wide range of pressing challenges currently facing the sector.

    These included overfishing, environmental degradation, lack of access to affordable finance, post-harvest losses, inadequate cold storage infrastructure, poor transportation and market linkages, low youth involvement, multiple taxation by local government authorities, and the rising cost of imported fish feed.

    Responding to these concerns, Oyetola gave strong assurances that the Ministry is already engaging stakeholders, both local and international, to tackle the identified issues head-on.

    He revealed that discussions are ongoing with the World Bank to secure financial support for fish farmers and that the Ministry will be collaborating with the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) to ensure affordable and accessible insurance coverage for fish farmers across the country.

    “We are also in talks with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to replicate the successful aquaculture model at the Oyan Dam in other parts of the country,” he added, pointing to integrated planning and inter-ministerial cooperation as key pillars of the strategy.

    “This meeting is not the end, it is the beginning of a sustained and transformative dialogue,” the Minister assured.

    The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Olufemi Oloruntola, who delivered the welcome address, noted that the meeting was in fulfilment of commitments made by the Minister during the Ministry’s second-quarter citizens and stakeholders engagement held in Lagos on 3rd July. He reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to build enduring partnerships with cooperative societies to drive inclusive growth.

    The Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mr Wellington Omoragbon, also participated in the session and highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional frameworks and adopting enterprise-driven models to enhance productivity and attract funding.

    Participants praised the initiative as “timely and long overdue,” expressing hope that the consultative approach would lead to actionable results. The meeting, described as robust and frank, ended with renewed optimism about Nigeria’s potential to become self-sufficient in fish production and a net exporter of fish in the near future.

  • 1,000 Osun households benefit from Oyetola’s empowerment

    1,000 Osun households benefit from Oyetola’s empowerment

    Nofewer than 1,000 households in Ipetumodu, Ife North Local Government Area and Modakeke, Ife-East Area office, have benefited from the empowerment scheme of Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

    The empowerment, which started in 2023 with over 20,000 beneficiaries, is sponsored by the Executive Director, Engineering Services, Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Abeokuta,  Oluwakayode Sowade.

    For the sixth edition of the programme, 400 vulnerable households were picked across the political wards in Ife North council while 600 were selected in Modakeke to receive food items and cash.

    Sowade said: “When our leader, Oyetola was the governor, he commenced monthly distribution of food items to 20,000 vulnerable households but since he left office, Governor Ademola Adeleke stopped the initiative, causing hardship to bite harder even before the removal of the subsidy.

    Read Also: Oyetola: Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in 3 years

    “This programme tagged ‘Oyetola Hand of Fellowship’ is to help tackle hardship and make people believe in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. We will still do more for our people.”

    He added: “We are giving food items, including rice, beans, and garri with cash gift to 600 households in Ipetumodu while 400 households benefited in Modakeke.”

    Earlier, former Special Adviser to Oyetola, Kareem Akande and Chairman, All Progressives Congress(APC) in Ife North, Elder Awotidoye Rufus Ayokunnu, lauded the gesture towards the vulnerable households in the two local governments of Osun and expressed confidence that the party would wrestle power from Adeleke next year.  

  • Over 1,000 Osun households benefit from Oyetola’s empowerment

    Over 1,000 Osun households benefit from Oyetola’s empowerment

    No fewer than 1,000 households in Ipetumodu, Ife-North local government area and Modakeke, Ife-East Area office, benefited from the empowerment scheme of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

    The empowerment which started in 2023 with over 20,000 beneficiaries is sponsored by the Executive Director, Engineering Services of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Abeokuta, Engr. Oluwakayode Sowade. 

    For the sixth edition of the programme, 400 vulnerable households were picked across the political wards in Ife-North council while 600 were selected in Modakeke to receive food items and a cash gift. 

    Speaking at the event, Sowade said that “When our leader, Oyetola was the governor, he commenced monthly distribution of food items to 20,000 vulnerable households but since he left office, Governor Ademola Adeleke stopped the initiative, causing hardship to bite harder even before the removal of the subsidy. 

    Read Also: Oyetola: Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in 3 years

    “This programme tagged Oyetola Hand of Fellowship is to help tackle hardship and make people believe in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. We will still do more for our people.”

    He disclosed that “We are giving food items including rice, beans, Garri and others with cash gift to 600 households in Ipetumodu while 400 households benefited in Modakeke.”

    Earlier, former Special Adviser to Oyetola, Hon. Kareem Akande and Chairman of All Progressives Congress(APC) in Ife-North, Elder Awotidoye Rufus Ayokunnu lauded the gesture towards the vulnerable households in the two local government areas of Osun State and they expressed confidence that the party will wrestle power from Governor Adeleke in 2026. 

  • Oyetola: Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in 3 years

    Oyetola: Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in 3 years

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said yesterday, that  the country has recorded three consecutive years with zero piracy incidents on its territorial waters.

    Addressing over 2,000 citizens and maritime stakeholders in Lagos yesterday during the second quarter citizens and stakeholders engagement meeting organised by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Minister attributed this milestone to the success of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative and renewed focus on coordinated enforcement.

    The theme of the event was ‘Strengthening Collaboration for Effective Implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.’

    According  to him: “Through the Deep Blue Project, Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for three consecutive years.

    “This is a remarkable achievement that has earned us international commendation and contributed significantly to regional maritime stability.”

    Oyetola revealed that Nigeria’s leadership role in maritime security has been recognised by the African Union, which recently endorsed Nigeria’s offer to host the AU Combined Maritime Task Force in Lagos.

    He added that the policy endorsed by the Federal Executive Council is a key part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, offering a comprehensive roadmap to unlock value across multiple sectors, including maritime security, port infrastructure, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, ocean governance, and renewable energy.

    “This gathering is not ceremonial. It is a working session designed to set priorities, define institutional responsibilities, and ensure coordinated, accountable implementation,” he said.

    Read Also: Oyetola inaugurates 11-member governing board of NIMASA

    The Minister outlined major infrastructure investments, including the Federal Government’s approval of contracts for the reconstruction of the Apapa and Tin-Can Ports, as well as ongoing procurement processes for upgrades in the Eastern Ports. These are to be complemented by digital systems like the Port Community System, E-Call-Up platform, and a unified clearance process to ease port congestion and improve trade efficiency.

    To strengthen Nigeria’s shipping capacity, he announced that the government is pursuing the revival of a National Carrier through public-private partnerships. Preparatory work for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund by NIMASA is also underway, with strong emphasis on transparency and regulatory compliance.

    Highlighting achievements in inland waterway transportation, the Minister stated that over 42,000 life jackets have been distributed nationwide, along with the deployment of ferries and patrol boats. These interventions, backed by the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation of 2023, are already reducing boat mishaps and restoring public confidence in water travel.

    He also detailed efforts to reposition the fisheries and aquaculture sector as a driver of food security and rural development. This includes the revival of fishing terminals, automation of licensing systems, and new incentives to encourage private-sector investment.

    On the regional front, Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s role in championing the operationalisation of the Regional Maritime Development Bank, which will be headquartered in Abuja.

    “The Bank is expected to provide long-term financing for critical infrastructure and support cross-border trade in West and Central Africa.

    “At the global level, Nigeria has officially launched a bid for a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, a move that would enhance the country’s influence in shaping global maritime policies.

    “The transition to a sustainable blue economy is not automatic. It requires innovation, investment, strong institutions, and capacity building,” Oyetola stated.

    He concluded by urging stakeholders to seize the opportunity to implement the national policy with urgency and responsibility, adding that effective citizen engagement and cross-sectoral collaboration would be essential for success.

    The event brought together policymakers, industry players, academics, and civil society representatives to discuss actionable strategies for implementing the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

  • Nigeria records three years of zero piracy – Oyetola

    Nigeria records three years of zero piracy – Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday announced that Nigeria has recorded three consecutive years without a single piracy incident on its territorial waters.

    Speaking during the second quarter Citizens and Stakeholders Engagement Meeting in Lagos, Oyetola attributed the milestone to the success of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative, and enhanced coordinated enforcement efforts.

    The event, themed “Strengthening Collaboration for Effective Implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy,” brought together over 2,000 citizens and maritime stakeholders.

    “Through the Deep Blue Project, Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for three consecutive years,” Oyetola said. “This is a remarkable achievement that has earned us international commendation and contributed significantly to regional maritime stability.”

    He also disclosed that Nigeria’s leadership in maritime security has been acknowledged by the African Union (AU), which recently approved the country’s offer to host the AU Combined Maritime Task Force in Lagos.

    Oyetola further noted that the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, recently endorsed by the Federal Executive Council, is a critical pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The policy outlines a roadmap to unlock value across key sectors, including port infrastructure, aquaculture, ocean governance, marine biotechnology, and renewable energy.

    “This gathering is not ceremonial. It is a working session designed to set priorities, define institutional responsibilities, and ensure coordinated, accountable implementation,” he said.

    The Minister outlined major infrastructure investments, including the Federal Government’s approval of contracts for the reconstruction of the Apapa and Tin-Can Ports, as well as ongoing procurement processes for upgrades in the Eastern Ports.

    These are to be complemented by digital systems like the Port Community System, E-Call-Up platform, and a unified clearance process to ease port congestion and improve trade efficiency.

    To strengthen Nigeria’s shipping capacity, he announced that the government is pursuing the revival of a National Carrier through public-private partnerships. Preparatory work for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund by NIMASA is also underway, with strong emphasis on transparency and regulatory compliance.

    Highlighting achievements in inland waterway transportation, the Minister stated that over 42,000 life jackets have been distributed nationwide, along with the deployment of ferries and patrol boats. These interventions, backed by the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation of 2023, are already reducing boat mishaps and restoring public confidence in water travel.

    He also detailed efforts to reposition the fisheries and aquaculture sector as a driver of food security and rural development. This includes the revival of fishing terminals, automation of licensing systems, and new incentives to encourage private-sector investment.

    On the regional front, Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s role in championing the operationalisation of the Regional Maritime Development Bank, which will be headquartered in Abuja.

    “The Bank is expected to provide long-term financing for critical infrastructure and support cross-border trade in West and Central Africa.

    Read Also: Oyetola challenges NIMASA governing board on leadership

    “At the global level, Nigeria has officially launched a bid for a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, a move that would enhance the country’s influence in shaping global maritime policies.

    “The transition to a sustainable blue economy is not automatic. It requires innovation, investment, strong institutions, and capacity building,” Oyetola stated.

    He concluded by urging stakeholders to seize the opportunity to implement the national policy with urgency and responsibility, adding that effective citizen engagement and cross-sectoral collaboration would be essential for success.

    The event brought together policymakers, industry players, academics, and civil society representatives to discuss actionable strategies for implementing the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

  • Oyetola inaugurates 11-member governing board of NIMASA

    Oyetola inaugurates 11-member governing board of NIMASA

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the 11-member governing board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

    The Minister, while inaugurating the members in Abuja on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters, charged them to prioritise national interest and work towards the development of the maritime sector.

    He emphasised that the Board’s decisions and policies must be guided by national interests and directed towards the growth of the country and the advancement of its economy.

    He said, “Today’s inauguration of the board is not merely symbolic; it represents a renewed opportunity to steer the agency in a direction that aligns with our national aspirations. I must emphasise that the decisions and policies of this board must be guided by national interests and directed towards the betterment of Nigeria and the advancement of our economy.

    “Your appointment by the President is not by chance. It is rooted in sound, calculated reasoning and a trust in your capability to captain one of the most important agencies in this country.

    “The administration of President Bola Tinubu trusts you to bring your experience, integrity and sound judgment to bear in ensuring that the agency not only fulfils its mandate but also serves as a catalyst for the sustainable development of the Nigerian economy”.

    Oyetola, while highlighting the role of the board, urged them to work harmoniously with the management of the agency.

    “As board members, your role is to provide strategic direction, not to manage but to guide, to question and to uphold the values of transparency, accountability and national service. You are to support the management team while holding them to the highest standard of performance.

    “To echo the clear directive of President Bola Tinubu to all governing boards: Your primary responsibility is to provide oversight and strategic direction, not to micromanage. The President has emphasised the non-executive nature of the Chairperson’s roles and cautioned against interference in the day-to-day operations of the agency, and it is important that this principle guides your conduct in the discharge of your duties.”

    Speaking on behalf of the board members, the Chairman of the Board, Mr.Yusuf Abubakar, pledged the Board’s commitment to serving with dedication, clarity of purpose, and unwavering commitment to Nigerians.

    Read Also: Oyetola inaugurates NPA governing board, calls for a reform-driven body

    He said, “The task ahead is very clear. We are fully aware that NIMASA occupies a pivotal position in the actualisation of Nigeria’s economic diversification goal and, particularly, the enormous potential of our blue economy.

    “As a Board, we are resolute in our commitment to providing strategic oversight and guidance that will strengthen NIMASA’s institutional capacity and drive performance.

    “We assure you and the general public that this Board will work in close synergy with the management and staff of NIMASA to foster a culture of transparency, professionalism and innovation.

    “We would work as one team, united by purpose and driven by result, to ensure that the vision of Mr. President for a prosperous and secure maritime domain is fully realised”.

    Other members of the board are: Babatunde H. Bombata, Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu, Arc. Yinusa Yakubu, Fedelis Lorkoso Agbir, Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Hon. Chudi Offodile, Engr. Fatai Taye Adeyemi and Mr. Jibril Abba.

  • Oyetola inaugurates NPA governing board, calls for a reform-driven body

    Oyetola inaugurates NPA governing board, calls for a reform-driven body

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has officially inaugurated the newly constituted Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

    The event, which took place at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja on Monday, June 30, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the federal government’s ongoing efforts to reposition the maritime sector as a driver of national economic development.

    In his address, the minister described the inauguration as a vital step in strengthening the governance framework of the NPA and aligning it with the broader vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reform and revitalise key government institutions.

    According to the minister, the move underscores the administration’s firm commitment to institutional reforms aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, boosting transparency, and unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy in a manner that is inclusive and sustainable.

    Oyetola noted that the Nigerian Ports Authority Act assigns critical policy oversight responsibilities to the Governing Board, particularly in areas concerning staffing and budgetary matters. These roles, he said, are executed primarily through the Board’s Staff and Establishment Committee and its Finance Committee.

    He, however, emphasised that the day-to-day management of the Authority remains the exclusive responsibility of the Managing Director and the executive management team. This distinction, he stressed, is vital for operational integrity and is clearly outlined in both the NPA Act and the Public Procurement Act of 2007.

    “It is important to emphasise that the day-to-day operations and execution of policy decisions remain solely the responsibility of the Managing Director and the Management Team. This is clearly stipulated in Section 10(3) of the NPA Act and further reinforced by the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007. Clear boundaries between governance and management must be maintained for operational integrity and efficiency.

    “The Board is to provide policy direction and supervision in line with government directives, but must not interfere with routine management or operational execution.

    “To the Management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, I enjoin you to engage constructively with the Board in a manner that reflects professionalism, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Institutional harmony is vital, and this can only be achieved through cooperation, transparency, and unwavering dedication to national service.

    “To the newly inaugurated Board Members, I congratulate you. I urge you to approach this assignment with discipline, focus, and a firm commitment to national interest. Your role is pivotal to the development of a competitive and efficient port system, one that meets global standards and contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation,” the honourable minister said.

    Read Also: Oyetola flags off labour e-platform

    Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated Board, its chairman, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and the other members of the Board.

    He extended his appreciation to Minister Oyetola for his unwavering support throughout the nomination and inauguration process, describing the Minister as a pillar of encouragement whose guidance had been instrumental to the success of NPA.

    Adeyeye praised the composition of the Board, highlighting the collective experience and expertise of its members.

    He also commended the Managing Director and executive management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, as well as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, for their warm reception and evident willingness to work collaboratively with the new Board.

    The chairman affirmed the Board’s determination to work in close harmony with the NPA’s management and the Ministry to ensure a successful and impactful tenure.

    He emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation, describing the Minister as the head of the family under whose leadership the Board would function with a spirit of shared purpose and without discord.

    The NPA Board members include Senator Adedayo Adeyeye (Chairman), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho (Managing Director), Hon. Olabanji Olawale Olateju (Member), Hon. Amirudin Tukur Idris (Member), Barr. Kelechi Igwe (Member), Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel (Member) and Dr. Mercy Ilori (Member), representing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

    The others are Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar (Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services), Engr. Olalekan Badmus (Executive Director, Marine and Operations) and Ms. Vivian C. Richard Edet (Executive Director, Finance and Administration. 

  • Oyetola flags off labour e-platform

    Oyetola flags off labour e-platform

    The Federal Government has launched the NIMASA Maritime Labour E-Platform, a new digital platform aimed at revolutionising labour administration in the maritime sector.

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, unveiled the initiative yesterday, during the 2025 Day of the Seafarer celebration held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    According to Oyetola, the initiative by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) marks a critical step towards improving regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and transparency across the sector.

    He said: “This E-Platform will provide real-time data access, enhance regulatory compliance, and serve as a centralised system for maritime labour administration. It is a bold move that shows NIMASA’s commitment to digital reform and modern regulatory processes.”

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    He commended NIMASA’s forward-thinking approach, noting that the platform aligns with the ministry’s broader goals of enhancing ease of doing business, promoting global competitiveness, and investing in human capital development within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.

    “I urge all maritime stakeholders to take full advantage of the platform’s capabilities. It has the potential to drive sector-wide innovation, boost accountability, and significantly improve service delivery,” Oyetola added.

    The launch formed part of celebrations marking the International Day of the Seafarer, which spotlighted the contributions and welfare of maritime professionals.

  • Oyetola flags off labour e-platform to modernise sector

    Oyetola flags off labour e-platform to modernise sector

    The federal government has launched the NIMASA Maritime Labour E-Platform, a new digital platform aimed at revolutionising labour administration in Nigeria’s maritime sector. 

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, unveiled the initiative on Wednesday, during the 2025 Day of the Seafarer celebration held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    According to Oyetola, the initiative by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) marks a critical step towards improving regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and transparency across the sector.

    He said: “This E-Platform will provide real-time data access, enhance regulatory compliance, and serve as a centralised system for maritime labour administration. It is a bold move that shows NIMASA’s commitment to digital reform and modern regulatory processes.”

    He commended NIMASA’s forward-thinking approach, noting that the platform aligns with the ministry’s broader goals of enhancing ease of doing business, promoting global competitiveness, and investing in human capital development within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.

    Read Also: Oyetola rallies Island nations for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid

    “I urge all maritime stakeholders to take full advantage of the platform’s capabilities. It has the potential to drive sector-wide innovation, boost accountability, and significantly improve service delivery,” Oyetola added.

    The launch formed part of celebrations marking the International Day of the Seafarer, which spotlighted the contributions and welfare of maritime professionals