As Nigeria gears up for the 2024 World Maritime Day celebration on Thursday, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed optimism regarding the nation’s maritime sector, emphasizing the theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.” This theme aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to establish Nigeria as a maritime hub in Africa.
In a statement released by his spokesman, Ismail Omipidan, Minister Oyetola highlighted that the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy was a pivotal step in steering Nigeria towards a safer and more secure maritime future. He acknowledged that this initiative is part of a broader agenda that includes implementing various policies and programs aimed at enhancing the safety of Nigeria’s waterways.
World Maritime Day serves as an annual reminder of the crucial role shipping and maritime activities play in global trade and security. It is also a platform to underscore the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) efforts to bolster maritime safety and environmental protection.
Oyetola noted that Nigeria has ample reasons to celebrate its maritime achievements, particularly the successful implementation of the Deep Blue Project. Launched by the Nigerian Government and spearheaded by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), this initiative addresses the multifaceted security challenges facing Nigeria’s waterways. Since its full deployment in 2021, the Deep Blue Project has significantly improved maritime security, contributing to an impressive record of zero piracy incidents over the past two years. This progress has not gone unnoticed; the United Nations Security Council recently acknowledged Nigeria’s advancements in maritime security, attributing them to the efforts of the Deep Blue Project.
The Minister further elaborated on the Ministry’s initiatives to enhance the competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports on the global stage. He noted ongoing efforts to rehabilitate and modernize port infrastructure while deploying new assets to improve operational efficiency. Recently, the Minister inaugurated two 80-tonne bollard pull tugboats acquired by the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), which are now operational at the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Deep Seaport. These vessels play a crucial role in port security, patrol, and surveillance, while also providing essential pilotage and towage services to meet the growing cargo demands of the Lekki maritime corridor.
Oyetola also unveiled a new regulatory transportation code at the National Inland Waterways Authority’s (NIWA) headquarters in Lokoja. This code aims to standardize water transportation, reduce accidents, and create a structured environment for potential investors in the sector.
The 2024 World Maritime Day celebration will take place in Lagos and is expected to attract key stakeholders within the maritime industry. The event will feature Prof. Larry Awosika, Chairman of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), as the Special Guest of Honour, underscoring the significance of collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s maritime agenda.
