By correspondent in Lagos
The Federal Government says it is taking steps to fully integrate Nigeria’s ports with road, rail, and inland waterway networks to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the maritime sector.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, made this known during the third Maritime Transportation Industry Breakfast in Lagos, organised by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA).
He was represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Maritime Services in the ministry.
Oyetola said the initiative would ease cargo movement, reduce congestion, and make Nigerian ports more competitive within the region, addng that the ministry is also developing a Port Community System, a digital platform aimed at automating port operations.
According to him, the platform would reduce processing time, foster seamless stakeholder coordination, and enhance the ease of doing business at the ports.
The minister also disclosed that the ministry had introduced the certification of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) to align with international conservation standards and open access to global markets for local fishers.
He noted that the ministry was committed to building capacity among fishers, strengthening regulations, and promoting private investment in aquaculture to ensure long-term sector growth.
Oyetola said plans were in place to disburse the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) to indigenous shipping firms to boost their capacity. He also mentioned the establishment of a National Fleet Implementation Committee to revive Nigeria’s maritime fleet.
He highlighted the global significance of the maritime industry, which handles over 80 per cent of global trade and offers oceanic resources valued at more than $1.5 trillion annually.
To improve turnaround time and cargo handling, he revealed that a port modernisation programme had begun with Apapa and Tincan Island ports as pilot projects to upgrade aging infrastructure.
Despite these efforts, the sector still faces infrastructure deficits, environmental concerns, and security challenges but Oyetola stressed the need for a multifaceted approach to position Nigeria as Africa’s maritime hub.
NMLA President, Mrs Funke Agbor, reaffirmed the association’s support for strong legal, policy, and institutional frameworks in the maritime industry.
Agbor emphasised the importance of private sector involvement, regulatory reforms, and sustained stakeholder dialogue to unlock the sector’s untapped potential.
She said the breakfast meeting was designed as a platform to promote collaboration and exchange of ideas aimed at enhancing maritime transport as a pillar of national development.
Agbor also appreciated the minister for engaging stakeholders and urged continued multi-sectoral dialogue to make Nigeria a preferred cargo destination in Africa.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
