By Ewrhujakpor Godfrey Bivbere & Stella Okocha
Harboursandport.com: Lagos - July 3,2025: The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has said that the ministry scored 75 per cent in the evaluation by the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit, CRDCU.
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| Honourable Minister Of Marine And Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola |
Speaking at the 2nd Quarter Citizens and Stakeholders Engagement Meeting held on July 3, 2025, in Lagos, the minister, Adegboyega Oyetola, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
The Minister said the policy which has been endorsed by the Federal Executive Council, provides a comprehensive framework to unlock value across Nigeria’s marine ecosystems.
He noted that the policy covers critical areas such as port infrastructure, maritime security, aquaculture, ocean governance, marine biotechnology, renewable energy, coastal tourism, and climate resilience.
On the reason for the meeting, Oyetola said,“This is not a ceremonial gathering. “It is a working forum to develop a strategic roadmap, assign institutional responsibilities, and ensure accountability at all levels.”
He announced that the Ministry achieved a 75% performance score in 2024, as evaluated by the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU), placing it among the top-performing MDAs despite operational challenges.
*Key Initiatives and Sectoral Reforms Port Modernization:*
Contracts have been approved for the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports under the Western Port Rehabilitation Programme, with procurement ongoing for the Eastern Ports.
Digital systems like the Port Community System, E-Call-Up, and a unified One-Stop-Shop are being deployed to reduce delays and boost investor confidence.
Shipping Capacity:
The Ministry is pursuing the revival of a National Carrier through a public-private partnership.
NIMASA has begun preparatory work for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, aimed at supporting indigenous shipping operators.
Revenue Growth:
Agencies under the Ministry have recorded consistent year-on-year revenue growth, driven by digitization, improved efficiency, and private sector investment.
Trade Facilitation:
Efforts are underway to streamline procedures, eliminate regulatory overlaps, and expand bonded terminals, dry ports, and inland logistics corridors.
Regional Integration:
Nigeria is leading the operationalization of the Regional Maritime Development Bank under MOWCA, headquartered in Abuja, to finance long-term maritime infrastructure and support cross-border trade.
Inland Waterways and Fisheries:
The Ministry, through the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, has introduced the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation, 2023, launched a national water safety campaign, distributed over 42,000 life jackets, and deployed ferries and patrol boats—efforts that have helped reduce boat mishaps nationwide.
Following the transfer of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Ministry is reviving fishing terminals, automating licensing, and encouraging responsible private investment in aquaculture to boost food security and rural livelihoods.
Security and Global Engagement:
Oyetola highlighted that Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for three consecutive years under the Deep Blue Project, earning international commendation. Nigeria has also offered to host the African Union Combined Maritime Task Force in Lagos.
The country has officially launched its bid for a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, aiming to strengthen its voice in global maritime governance.
“The transition to a sustainable blue economy requires innovation, investment, and human capital development.
“We are committed to building the institutional and international linkages needed to position Nigeria as a maritime and logistics hub for West and Central Africa.”
He concluded by thanking stakeholders for their insights and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive, data-driven policy implementation.
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