Harboursandport.com: London, UK – September 22, 2025: Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has made a compelling case for international investment in Nigeria’s maritime sector, describing it as a catalyst for Africa’s economic resurgence.
Speaking at the Africa Maritime and Shipping Assembly during the London International Shipping Week (LISW) 2025, Oyetola—represented by NIMASA Director General Dayo Mobereola—outlined Nigeria’s ambitious reforms and strategic vision for the sector.
In his keynote address titled “Navigating Regulatory Seas: Steering Africa’s Maritime Governance Towards Seamless Trade,” the Minister emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to regulatory harmonization, port modernization, maritime security, and sustainable shipping practices. He urged investors to look beyond short-term returns and embrace the long-term potential of Nigeria’s evolving blue economy.
“Our oceans and inland waterways are our lifeblood,” Oyetola said, highlighting the sector’s role in driving the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He noted that Nigeria’s recent strides in maritime security—particularly through the Deep Blue Project—have led to three consecutive years without piracy incidents, earning praise from the International Maritime Bureau.
The Minister also spotlighted the Lekki Deep Sea Port as a landmark achievement in public-private partnership, with its capacity to berth mega vessels and serve as a transshipment hub for landlocked African nations like Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
On sustainability, Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to green shipping and climate-resilient coastal management. He called for the accelerated adoption of continental instruments such as the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter to eliminate non-tariff barriers and foster seamless trade across African ports.
Nigeria’s presence at LISW 2025, one of the world’s premier maritime gatherings, underscores its readiness to attract foreign direct investment and advocate for Africa’s interests in global maritime governance. The Minister also used the platform to rally support for Nigeria’s bid for Category C membership in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
“Our campaign is not just about Nigeria,” he said. “It’s about amplifying Africa’s voice in shaping the future of global shipping.”
The event was attended by key Nigerian maritime leaders, including William Bwala, Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO; Dayo Mobereola, DG of NIMASA; and Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.
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