On Wednesday, April 9, 2025 maritime stakeholders gathered in Lagos for the 3rd Maritime Industry Breakfast Meeting, hosted by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA), the Nigerian branch of the Comite Maritime International (CMI) with the theme: “Prospects for Accelerated Growth and Other Matters Arising.”
The event served as a platform for dialogue on policy, infrastructure, and innovation in Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sectors.
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Maritime Services, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, delivered a comprehensive overview of the Ministry’s strategic initiatives.
Highlights included:
Integrated Transport Connectivity
The Ministry is advancing plans to connect ports with road, rail, and inland waterways to improve logistics efficiency and support trade competitiveness.
Port Community System
A digital platform is under development to automate and centralise port operations—aimed at reducing turnaround times and enhancing the ease of doing business.
Sustainability Initiatives
Implementation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) to promote responsible fishing practices and access eco-sensitive markets.
Industry Support Measures
Ongoing steps to disburse the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) and establish a National Fleet Implementation Committee to support indigenous shipping firms and boost local capacity.
Port Modernisation Programme
Pilot projects at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports are underway to upgrade ageing infrastructure and improve cargo handling efficiency.
Mrs. Funke Agbor, SAN, President of the NMLA, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting the legal, institutional, and policy frameworks that underpin the maritime industry. She emphasised that:
“Maritime transportation sits at the heart of global trade and economic integration. With Nigeria’s expansive coastline and strategic location, the potential for accelerated growth is evident—but realising it requires sustained collaboration, effective regulation, and proactive policy engagement.”
Mrs. Agbor reiterated the purpose of the Breakfast Series—to serve as a platform for multi-sectoral dialogue, alignment, and the pursuit of pragmatic solutions to unlock Nigeria’s maritime potential.
The 3rd Maritime Industry Breakfast Meeting highlighted the substantial progress being made by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, while also reinforcing the need for collective action.
We commend the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Ilori, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, General Manager, LASWA, Mr. Daniel Odibe, Deputy Chief Operating officer, Lekki Deep Sea Port and all participants for their shared commitment to shaping a resilient, modern, and inclusive maritime industry in Nigeria.
