Maritime experts have called on the Nigerian government to address critical issues like piracy, illegal fishing, interstate disputes, and transnational crime in order to fully harness the $2.5 trillion ocean economy. At the 2024 International Maritime Organisation (IMO) World Maritime Day in Lagos, stakeholders emphasized the need for robust maritime security measures to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s blue economy.
Prof. Larry Awosika, Chairman of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf and guest speaker at the event, highlighted that ensuring safe, secure, energy-efficient, and low-carbon maritime transport is essential for sustainable marine resource exploitation. He warned that unsustainable maritime practices, coupled with environmental degradation, threaten marine-based industries such as fishing, tourism, and resource extraction.
Awosika stressed that Nigeria’s blue economy—which includes fishing, transportation, ecosystem health, and marine tourism—can only thrive through improved maritime security. He also raised concerns that security issues like smuggling, arms trafficking, and narcotics smuggling could hamper investments in marine exploration and tourism, which are vital for both the national and global economies.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, reiterated the need to tackle these challenges, especially as the industry adopts new technologies and alternative fuels to lower greenhouse gas emissions from ships. Represented by Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oloruntola, Oyetola assured that Nigeria’s regulatory framework remains aligned with IMO standards, reflecting the country’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety.
Oyetola further highlighted the importance of upgrading maritime infrastructure and capacity building to keep Nigeria competitive in global seaborne trade. He noted that collaboration with the private sector is crucial for providing the resources and modern facilities needed to advance Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Bwala Williams, Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO, London, added that the global focus on maritime safety and security is timely, particularly as the world commemorates the 50th anniversary of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). He underscored the importance of maritime safety, calling for Nigeria’s continued commitment to global standards.
As Nigeria seeks to tap into its ocean economy, experts agree that overcoming security threats and enhancing maritime infrastructure are key to unlocking the full potential of its blue economy.
