The Federal Government has highlighted Nigeria’s marine and blue economy as a sector brimming with immense investment prospects, describing it as a key driver for sustainable development and regional trade expansion.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, conveyed this in a statement issued on Friday through his Media Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola.
He is currently represented at the ongoing London International Shipping Week (LISW) 2025 by Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
Oyetola explained that the maritime sector possesses the potential to stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and firmly position Nigeria as a regional maritime hub.
He urged investors from across Africa and beyond to take advantage of the emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s waterways and ports.
“We encourage stakeholders to adopt a long-term perspective, as the maritime sector is evolving into a critical pillar for trade and industrial growth.
“Our oceans and inland waterways represent a lifeline for commerce, forming a backbone that will significantly advance the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“The successful implementation of the Deep Blue Project has drastically improved maritime security, eliminating piracy within Nigerian waters and reducing incidents across the Gulf of Guinea,” he said.
Oyetola stressed that Nigeria has achieved three consecutive years free of piracy incidents, a record acknowledged by the International Maritime Bureau, and proof of Nigeria’s safety as an investment destination.
He pointed to ongoing infrastructure developments, especially the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which he described as a landmark in public-private partnership.
According to him, the state-of-the-art facility is designed to handle the world’s largest vessels and will serve as a major trans-shipment hub for landlocked African nations.
He further emphasized that government reforms are focused on consolidating Nigeria’s position as the maritime hub of West and Central Africa.
He assured stakeholders that maritime security remains a top priority, with strategies anchored on technology-driven monitoring, legal enforcement, and regional cooperation.
Such measures, he said, will enhance trans-shipment operations for countries like Niger, Chad, and Burkina Faso, strengthening Nigeria’s sub-regional influence.
The minister also appealed for continental backing of Nigeria’s bid for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
“Our aspiration goes beyond securing a seat for Nigeria; it represents a unified voice for Africa within the global maritime community,” he added.
Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to transform Nigeria into a global maritime hub that drives prosperity across Africa.