As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary today, maritime operators have urged the Federal Government to address the issue of fluctuating exchange rates to bolster the nation’s import sector. Speaking on Monday in Lagos, key stakeholders acknowledged the sector’s growth but emphasized the challenges posed by current fiscal policies.
Sikiru Remilekun, Youth Leader of the Tincan Island Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, highlighted the significant growth in Nigeria’s maritime industry in recent years but pointed out that fiscal policies, particularly related to the dollar, continue to be a stumbling block.
Remilekun explained, “The challenge in the maritime sector, especially in import and export, has seen growth, but fiscal policies on dollar floating remain a major issue.” He suggested that pegging the exchange rate for cargo clearance to under N1,000/$ could lead to a 200% growth in the sector.
He further noted that excessive bureaucracy and lack of capacity building also hinder the sector’s potential, saying, “The policy has slowed down inflow and outflow in port business… Another challenge is the lack of capacity building and too much bureaucracy/payments.”
Addressing Maritime Pollution and Security
Ship captain and South-West Director of the Merchant Seafarers Association of Nigeria, Williams Ogunshakin, called for government intervention to help the Maritime Pollution (MARPOL) agency manage waterway cleanliness. He suggested the creation of a body similar to the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to prevent waste from entering the country’s waterways, citing that pollution causes many maritime accidents.
Ogunshakin added, “They [MARPOL] have been able to minimize accidents on our waterways, but there’s a need for more in accident prevention… We should operate with zero tolerance for accidents.”
He also commended the efforts of maritime stakeholders and the military in improving maritime security, which he says has seen a significant improvement over the past six years.
As Nigeria reflects on its 64 years of independence, operators in the maritime sector hope for reforms that will drive growth, improve security, and enhance the sustainability of the nation’s waterways.
