New Maritime Policy Will Accelerate Sector Growth, Boost Blue Economy-Minister

The Federal Government has announced that the proposed National Maritime Policy currently before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) will fast-track growth in key sectors of the blue economy, including fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made this known on Wednesday in Lagos during a panel session at the third Maritime Transportation Breakfast Meeting organised by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA). Themed “Prospects for Accelerated Growth and Other Matters Arising,” the event brought together key industry stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Speaking through the Director of Maritime Services in the ministry, Dr. Mercy Ilori, Oyetola said the policy is designed to ensure environmental sustainability while positioning the sector as a major driver of economic development.

“This policy will create a sustainable economic growth path and significantly accelerate development in the fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining sectors,” the minister said.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Lekki Deep Sea Port, Daniel Odibe, lauded both the federal and Lagos State governments for their investment in coastal road infrastructure.

Odibe noted that enhanced road networks are critical for port efficiency and expansion, adding “We have the capacity to scan 100% of cargo, but we currently handle about 40–50%. Our scanners process goods in 30 seconds, and Lekki Deep Sea Port has already started transshipment to Warri. We’re looking to expand to Calabar and Onitsha to ease pressure on road logistics.”

He revealed that with a 19-metre water draft—16 metres of which are currently operational—the port can accommodate larger vessels.

He added that the port now spans 90 hectares and can handle millions of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), offering improved vessel turnaround time.

Former NMLA president and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chidi Ilogu, called for greater investment in waterway cargo transport.

He advised the Lekki Port management and Lagos State Waterways Authority to enhance inland water infrastructure and introduce barges across coastal states to decongest Lagos ports and reduce logistics costs.

Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Igbokwe, commended the Federal Government’s public-private partnership (PPP) approach in developing maritime infrastructure.

Igbokwe urged broader adoption of PPPs to cut cargo transport costs and promote rail integration for improved dry port operations in landlocked states.

In her remarks, NMLA President, Funke Agbor, SAN, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting a vibrant legal and policy environment for maritime growth.

She highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration and private sector involvement in driving sustainable development.

“Maritime transport is central to global trade and economic integration. With Nigeria’s coastline and strategic location, we have immense untapped potential. We must strengthen regulatory oversight, adopt inclusive policies, and promote consistent stakeholder engagement,” she said.

Agbor affirmed that the NMLA’s breakfast meeting series is designed to foster meaningful dialogue and policy direction for the marine and blue economy sectors.