Oyetola Unveils Historic £746m UK Deal for Nigeria’s Biggest Port Upgrade in 50 Years

Oyetola Unveils Historic £746m UK Deal for Nigeria’s Biggest Port Upgrade in 50 Years

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola

Bisi Akingbade 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has unveiled a landmark £746 million financing agreement with the United Kingdom that will deliver the most ambitious modernisation of Nigeria’s seaport infrastructure in nearly half a century, transforming the country’s principal maritime gateways and repositioning its port system for global competitiveness.

The historic financing arrangement, secured with the backing of UK Export Finance (UKEF), will fund the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of the Lagos Port Complex Apapa, popularly known as Apapa Port, and the Tin Can Island Port Complex in Lagos. Together, the two ports handle more than 70 per cent of Nigeria’s imports and exports, and serve as the central arteries of the nation’s maritime trade.

The landmark financing agreement will be formally signed during the high-profile state visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to London on March 18 and 19, 2026, signalling a deepening of strategic economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom while opening a new chapter in Nigeria’s maritime development.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the Minister described the financing package as a transformative milestone for the country’s port system, noting that the scale and scope of the modernisation project mark the first comprehensive overhaul of the facilities since their establishment.

The Lagos Port Complex Apapa, established in 1913, has for more than a century remained Nigeria’s oldest and busiest seaport, serving as the gateway for a vast proportion of the nation’s imports and exports. The Tin Can Island Port Complex was later developed to complement Apapa and was officially commissioned on 14 October 1977. Despite their strategic importance, neither facility has experienced a modernisation programme of this magnitude, making the initiative the most significant port upgrade undertaken by the Federal Government in almost fifty years.

According to Dr. Oyetola, the project forms a central pillar of the Federal Government’s broader agenda to unlock the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy while restoring efficiency and global competitiveness to the country’s maritime infrastructure.

“This financing agreement represents a defining moment for Nigeria’s maritime sector,” the minister said. “For decades, Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port have borne the weight of our national trade, yet their infrastructure has not kept pace with the scale and complexity of modern global shipping. What we are set to do is not merely an upgrade, but a comprehensive transformation that will bring our ports into alignment with international best practice.”

He emphasised that the partnership with the United Kingdom reflects a shared commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and advancing sustainable maritime development.

“Through this historic collaboration with the United Kingdom, we are laying the groundwork for a new era in the management and operation of Nigerian ports,” Oyetola said. “Modern infrastructure supported by digitalised and automated processes will significantly enhance efficiency, transparency and operational reliability. Our objective is clear: to create a port system that is modern, competitive and capable of serving as a strategic maritime hub for West and Central Africa.”

He said the modernisation programme will introduce advanced cargo-handling infrastructure, expanded port capacity and integrated digital systems designed to eliminate many of the operational bottlenecks that have historically slowed cargo movement through Nigeria’s busiest ports.

Dr. Oyetola noted that once completed, the reforms will fundamentally reshape the operational landscape of Nigeria’s maritime gateways. Vessel turnaround times are expected to decline significantly, while cargo dwell times within the ports will be sharply reduced as automated systems replace paper-based procedures and outdated manual processes.

“Efficiency at the ports is central to the health of the national economy,” he said. “By modernising our infrastructure and embracing digital technologies, we will enable faster clearance of imports and exports, reduce demurrage and logistics costs for businesses, and ensure a more predictable and transparent cargo movement system. These improvements will not only ease trade but will also stimulate economic growth and generate increased revenue for national development.”

The Minister added that the transformation of the two port complexes will strengthen Nigeria’s strategic position within regional and global maritime networks, attracting greater shipping traffic and reinforcing the country as a vital gateway for trade across West and Central Africa.

“Our vision is to build a port system that reflects the aspirations of a modern and globally competitive Nigeria. The modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports is a bold and necessary step in that direction. It will enhance the efficiency of our logistics chain, deepen investor confidence and ensure that Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure is capable of supporting the nation’s long-term economic ambitions," Oyetola added. 

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Nigeria to Pilot Regional Fishing Vessel Register in Gulf of Guinea - Oyetola

Nigeria to Pilot Regional Fishing Vessel Register in Gulf of Guinea - Oyetola 

CAPTION

L-R: Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and Chairman of the Conference of Ministers of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC), His Excellency Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON; FCWC Secretary-General, Antoine Gaston Djihinto, and the Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mr. Wellington Omoragbon, when Djihinto led the FCWC secretariat staff on a working visit to the Minister in his office in Abuja, recently.

Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and Chairman of the Conference of Ministers of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea, FCWC, His Excellency Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, 

said Nigeria has agreed to serve as the pilot country for the formal implementation of the Regional Record of Authorised Fishing Vessels in West Africa, a move the government says reflects its belief that credible leadership must be matched by practical action to combat illegal fishing and strengthen marine governance across the Gulf of Guinea.

He made this disclosure during a high-level meeting with the organisation’s Secretary-General and secretariat staff in Abuja. He said Nigeria’s decision to host the pilot phase of the Regional Record of Authorised Fishing Vessels demonstrates its resolve to translate regional leadership into measurable outcomes for sustainable fisheries management.

He said the proposed Regional Record of Authorised Fishing Vessels will create a verified database of industrial fishing vessels authorised to operate within the maritime zones of FCWC member states, covering both foreign and national fleets. The system is designed to improve transparency, accountability and cross-border cooperation in a region heavily affected by illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. 

This initiative, he said, builds on a roadmap endorsed by member states and reaffirmed in the Monrovia Declaration, which set out steps for establishing the register as a shared governance tool across West Central Africa.

Dr. Oyetola said Nigeria expected the pilot phase to test feasibility, identify operational gaps and generate practical lessons for broader regional rollout. He pledged that Nigeria would use its experience to guide and support other member states once implementation expands, stressing that collective action was essential to protect fisheries resources and livelihoods in the Gulf of Guinea.

"The project is envisaged as a formalised and validated regional database containing comprehensive and reliable information on fishing vessels authorised to operate within the maritime jurisdictions of FCWC Member States. This initiative represents a major step forward in strengthening transparency, accountability and cooperation in fisheries governance across our shared waters," he said. 

The minister also highlighted complementary regional efforts, including joint patrols and enforcement initiatives under the West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme, implemented by the FCWC in partnership with the European Fisheries Control Agency, to deter illegal fishing.

Dr. Oyetola also disclosed that Nigeria’s draft National Plan of Action on illegal fishing was being reviewed and updated following the transfer of fisheries oversight to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, underscoring the country’s determination to address illicit fishing activities.

He proposed deeper institutional engagement with the FCWC, including a high-level Nigerian mission to the organisation’s secretariat and regional monitoring centre, as well as collaboration on harmonising food safety and fisheries regulatory standards across member states to boost trade and consumer protection.

In a press release issued by the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister 

Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy  Reaffirming Nigeria’s, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, highlighted that Dr. Oyetola said his tenure as Chairman of the FCWC Conference of Ministers would focus on practical outcomes, stronger institutions and sustainable use of ocean resources. He thanked the FCWC member states for their continued partnership, describing the pilot vessel register as a defining step towards transparent and accountable fisheries governance in West Africa. 

Speaking earlier, the FCWC Secretary-General, Antoine Gaston Djihinto, commended the Minister for his commitment to addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and also for boosting fish production in the country. He also thanked the Ministry for hosting an "outstanding and highly commendable" FCWC Conference in Lagos in November 2025. 

The Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC) is an intergovernmental organisation established in 2007 to facilitate regional cooperation in fisheries management among its six member states: Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, and Togo. Headquartered in Tema, Ghana, the FCWC works to ensure the sustainable development and optimal use of shared marine resources while aggressively combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the sub-region. Its core activities include harmonising fisheries legislation, enhancing monitoring and surveillance, and promoting the growth of a sustainable blue economy to support the livelihoods of small-scale fishers in the sub-region. 

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Oyetola Hosts Delegates, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Global Maritime Commitment After IMO Council Victory

Oyetola Hosts Delegates, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Global Maritime Commitment After IMO Council Victory

Bisi Akingbade 

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive global maritime engagement following its election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, as the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, hosted an appreciation lunch for IMO delegates in London on Monday, 1 December 2025.

Addressing dignitaries, diplomats and representatives of member states, Dr Oyetola expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, emphasising that the country’s return to the IMO Council reflects a renewed vote of confidence in Nigeria’s role within the international maritime system. He noted that the support Nigeria received during the election was a reaffirmation of global belief in the nation’s constructive engagement and its commitment to contributing effectively to the organisation’s mission.

The Minister described the election as both a privilege and a weighty responsibility, stressing that Nigeria understands the gravity of serving on a Council that shapes critical global maritime policies. He highlighted that the IMO’s mandate extends to improving international maritime safety, driving decarbonisation, protecting the marine environment, enhancing maritime security and building a sustainable blue economy. Nigeria, he said, is fully committed to justifying the trust placed in it through purposeful leadership and meaningful collaboration.

Dr Oyetola outlined the reforms currently underway in Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector under President Tinubu’s guidance. These reforms aim to strengthen maritime safety and security, modernise ports, enhance flag and port state administration, advance hydrographic capabilities, improve seafarer development and expand critical maritime infrastructure. He emphasised that safeguarding a safer, greener and more efficient maritime environment is a shared global responsibility, noting that improvements in Nigeria’s maritime domain positively influence international shipping and coastal nations alike.

In the press release issued by the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola highlighted  that Dr. Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism, that the country will continue championing the values that underpin the IMO: cooperation, transparency, regulatory stability and equitable global maritime development. As a Council member, Nigeria intends to intensify advocacy for capacity-building for developing nations, expand avenues for technical cooperation and promote a level playing field that enables all states to confront emerging maritime challenges effectively.

The Minister assured delegates that Nigeria’s contributions within the Council will remain forward-looking, inclusive and solution-driven. He pledged closer cooperation with member states, the IMO Secretariat and industry stakeholders to improve global maritime safety, sustainability and economic growth. According to him, the confidence shown by the international community strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to deliver measurable, beneficial outcomes throughout the 2026–2027 biennium.

Dr Oyetola commended the Secretary-General of IMO,  Mr Arsenio Dominguez, and his team for their professionalism and steadfast commitment to maritime development. He also congratulated all elected Council members across the three categories, acknowledging the collective importance of their roles in guiding the work of the organisation.

The event closed on a note of warmth and optimism as the Minister thanked all delegates for their support, partnership and presence, urging them to enjoy Nigeria’s hospitality. He reaffirmed that Nigeria looks forward to deepened cooperation and shared progress during its term on the IMO Council. 

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Oyetola Vows Sweeping Reforms to End Boat Mishaps as Committee Submits Report

Oyetola Vows Sweeping Reforms to End Boat Mishaps as Committee Submits Report

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, 

Bisi Akingbade 

In a bold step towards ending recurring fatalities on Nigeria’s waterways, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has received the report of the Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria, vowing that the Federal Government would implement sweeping reforms to improve maritime safety.

Speaking while receiving the report of the Special Committee in Abuja, Oyetola reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to making Nigerian waters safe for all users. He declared that the current spate of boat mishaps was unacceptable and preventable, and must be tackled through a blend of policy enforcement, stakeholder cooperation, and behavioural change. 

According to the press release signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Bolajo Akinola stated that:

“The safety of our citizens on water is not just a policy responsibility; it is a moral duty. Every life lost in a boat mishap is one too many,” the Minister stated.

 “This report will serve as a foundation for immediate and long-term reforms. We will study the recommendations closely and act where policy adjustments or institutional coordination are required.”

The Minister stressed the urgent need for attitudinal change among water transport users, especially regarding the use of life jackets, describing such safety gear as non-negotiable.

 He further revealed that the Federal Government is set to phase out rickety boats, often implicated in fatal accidents, and replace them with safer, standard-compliant alternatives.

In a strong call to action, Oyetola appealed to state governments and other sub-national authorities to align with federal initiatives, stating, “The fight against boat mishaps cannot be won by the Federal Government alone. We call on state governments to collaborate with us in enforcing standards and saving lives.” 

The Minister also said he recently approved a nationwide distribution of life jackets to riverine and coastal communities as part of a strategic intervention to curb the alarming rate of boat mishaps and related fatalities. He urged the beneficiaries to prioritise safety by consistently and correctly using the life jackets whenever they travel on water. 

The 16-member Special Committee, inaugurated by the Minister on 27th February 2025, was tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of commercial boat operations in Nigeria, identifying causes of boat mishaps, and proposing sustainable solutions. 

Committee Chairman and Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, presented the detailed report to the Minister, outlining its structure and key findings.

According to Oyebamiji, the committee exceeded its initial six-week mandate to ensure a thorough and credible outcome. The report, comprising six chapters, includes detailed analyses of current operations, regulatory gaps, design standards, and institutional capacity. It also proposes a comprehensive plan to enhance safety and oversight.

Among the 64 recommendations reviewed by four technical sub-committees, 17 key proposals were highlighted in the final chapter. These include: establishment of a Coastal Guard to enforce waterway safety regulations; creation of a National Boat Design Policy to standardise permitted vessel types; mandatory certification and formal training for boat operators; increased funding for NIWA to strengthen hydrographic and marine engineering functions; and setting up search and rescue stations at strategic locations across inland waterways. 

Oyebamiji expressed gratitude to the Minister for his support and to the committee members for their commitment and sacrifices. 

“We adopted both physical and virtual meetings and created four specialised sub-committees to ensure a robust and practical report. We hope our findings serve as a blueprint for lasting safety in the sector,” he added. 

The submission of the report marks a pivotal moment in President Bola Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” particularly in fostering sustainable and safe blue economy practices.

The committee’s members include maritime safety experts, academics, engineers, legal practitioners, and policy professionals. They include Dr. Dayo Moberuola, Prof. S. Abiodun, Dr. Babatunde Olaosebikan, Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, Hadiza Idris Kuta, Engr. Yahaya Farouk, Attahiru Maccido and Denis Tar Iyaghigba. Others are Gani Tarzan Balogun, Capt. Stan Chucka Igwe, Raiph Onoshakpor, Prof. Ibiba Douglas, Richard Ntan, Babatope Fajemirokun and Ofie Adams.

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FG Hands Over 3,500 life Jackets to Enhance Safety on Ogun State Waterways

FG Hands Over 3,500 life Jackets to Enhance Safety on Ogun State Waterways 

Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister, Marine and Blue Economy 

Bisi Akingbade 

As part of efforts to enhance the safety of waterways across the nation, the federal government has donated 3500 life-jackets to Ogun State Government for waterways operators in the state.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who handed over the life-jackets on Tuesday, assured Nigerian inland waterways users that the ministry will stop at nothing to curb the needless loss  of lives on waterways.

Represented by Director of Maritime Services in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mercy Ilori, the Minister said the campaign is part of a deliberate national strategy to embed a culture of safety on our inland waterways. 

His words: "This is one of the most comprehensive Federal government responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways. Consequently, there have been successful handovers of Safety life jackets at Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States. We are now in Ogun State to sustain the momentum and  reveal the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Ogun.

"You will all agree with me that the frequency and tragic consequences of boat mishaps across the country are deeply concerning. It is in recognition of this menace that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to prioritize life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change."

He stressed that the government's commitment to end the needless loss of lives on waterways is anchored on three pillars: Strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; Continuous public education and sensitization campaigns; and Provision of critical safety equipment, notably life jackets, to waterway users.

"It is worthy to note that the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, a key agency under the Ministry, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this strategy. NIWA continues to lead in regulation, monitoring compliance, and supporting education and enforcement efforts on our inland waters," he remarked.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, assured the minister that the life jackets will be distributed equitably to registered operators across the state.

The Governor, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo stated that safety on the nation's waterways wasn't a privilege but a right of everyone in Ogun State.

He also assured that the State is ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain the momentum but to enhance inland waterways as viable and secured alternative to road infrastructure.

"Safety on the waterways is not a privilege, it is a right. Every life jacket hunded over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future socured. This initiative aligns with the human capital development pillar of our administration's ISEYA agenda ensuring that people remain at the heart of our progress

"Ogun State values the synergy we have fostered with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and applauds their dedication to the development of marine infrastrucnare, safety standards, and the blue economy as a whole. Ogun State stands ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain this momentum, not only in marine safety but also in enhancing indand waterways as viable and secure alternatives to road transport."

"To our waterway users, boat operators, fishermen, and residents of our riverine communities: these life jackets are for you. But more importantly, the knowledge and awareness you will gain from this sensitization effort will serve as your daily companion, protecting you and helping you protect others.

"Ogun State hereby assures the Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy and NIWA that these life jackets will be equitably distributed to verified and recognised operators across the state's waterways, from Iwopin to Ebute-Ero, from Agbara to Tongeji, Imakun Omi to Ode-Omi, and other active riverine corridors. A strict monitoring and maintenance protocol will be enforced to ensure sustainability and accountability."

The State Governor, however, warned that State actors would not allow preventable tragedies define the nation’s warways.

"As we continue to embrace innovation and development in transportation, we must also embrace accountability and responsibility. Let us not allow preventable tragedies to define way of life, let us instead champion the principles of safety, respect for life, and collective vigilance."

However, the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, warned that the issue of safety on the inland waterways cannot be over emphasized as he recounted several tragic incidents that claimed lives in hundreds.

"The issue of safety can never be over-emphasized. In June 12, 2023, a wooden boat carrying wedding guests returning from a marriage ceremony from Niger State capsized in Jeva Channel Lake, in River Niger in Kwara State, owing to overloading and a submerged tree. 

"The boat was reported to be carrying over 200 guests despite having the capacity of carrying just less than 100 passengers. More than 200 lives were lost, among which a father and four of his children were involved. So you can imagine the kind of tragedy that befell the family.

"Again, in October 1, 2024, a wooden boat carrying mostly women and children traveling for religious festive occasions capsized in Niger State. The boat was reported to be carrying over 300 passengers even though it has the capacity of carrying less than 100 passengers. More than 100 lives were lost."

NIWA Managing Director, who was respresnted by Engr. Elsie Egwuatu, observed that in the respective cases the boats were heavily overloaded, sailed at night without the proper navigational aids and conveyed passengers without life-jackets.

"So if you think safety is expensive, try disaster. Over 90 percent of accidents that happen on our waterways are caused by human error. In most cases, it is caused by captain's negligence. The newly gazetted Marine and Transport Regulations Codes, which spells out offences and punishments, ranging from fine to imprisonment, mandates the compulsory use of life jackets for all waterways users sailing on our waterways," she added.

Also speaking, the National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Alhaji Tarzan Balogun called for intensified regulatory efforts to prioritize safety and infrastructural development on Nigerian waterways.

Alhaji Balogun commended the government for its efforts in promoting safety across the country’s inland waterways, even as he assured that the life jackets would be used judiciously.

“There must be a firm policy — no life jacket, no entry. I’ve witnessed several cases where passengers refuse to wear them. That should not be allowed. Safety must come first,” he said.

Balogun also praised the federal government, particularly President Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, for their commitment to maritime safety and for recognizing the importance of life-saving gear in water transport.

"If you’re drunk or perceived to be a threat to others onboard, operators must have the authority to refuse you entry. There is also the problem of bringing animals onboard, especially dogs who can scare passengers onboard and make boats capsize," he stated.

Balogun also called on the Ogun State Government to emulate Lagos by setting up a dedicated waterways authority and constructing jetties in collaboration with local boat operators.

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Oyetola Inaugurates NIMASA, NIWA Governing Boards, Charges Members to Uphold National Interest

Oyetola Inaugurates NIMASA, NIWA Governing Boards, Charges Members to Uphold National Interest

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, on Wednesday 2nd July 2025, formally inaugurated the Governing Boards of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA,, in a dual ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja. 

Speaking at the event, Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to reposition the maritime sector for maximum national impact. He said the exercise represented not merely a routine constitutional process, but a vital step in consolidating the structures that will drive the marine and blue economy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking the immense potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national development. 

According to the press release issued by the Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Bolaj Akinola, stated that the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s strategic maritime position along the Gulf of Guinea and an expansive 850-kilometre coastline, noting the country’s potential to benefit substantially from activities such as shipping, fisheries, marine biotechnology, offshore energy and coastal tourism. He recalled that it was in recognition of these opportunities that President Tinubu, in 2023, established the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to provide focused leadership, regulation and promotion of the country’s ocean-based economy. 

Oyetola, while addressing the newly appointed members of the NIMASA Board, outlined the critical mandate of the Agency, which includes maritime safety, labour regulation, marine environmental protection and capacity development. He emphasised that the Board’s role is to formulate policies and provide oversight for the Agency’s operations, without interfering in its day-to-day management. Minister Oyetola reiterated President Tinubu’s clear directive that the responsibilities of Governing Boards are strictly non-executive and policy-focused. He urged the Board to operate in the national interest, with integrity, professionalism, and transparency. 

He then proceeded to officially inaugurate the NIMASA Board, chaired by Yusuf Abubakar. Other members include Babatunde Bombata representing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu representing the Nigerian Navy, Arc. Yinusa Yakubu, Fedelis Lorkoso Agbir, Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun, and Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Director General. Other members of the Board include Hon. Chudi Offodile, Executive Director, Finance and Administration; Engr. Fatai Taye Adeyemi, Executive Director, Operations; and Mr. Jibril Abba, Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Service. 

In his response on behalf of the Board, the Chairman, Yusuf Abubakar, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve. He described the appointment as not just a privilege, but a call to national duty. Abubakar also thanked Minister Oyetola for his leadership and for the confidence reposed in the Board. He assured that the Board would work closely with the NIMASA management team to foster transparency, innovation and professionalism, in line with the strategic vision of the Federal Government. 

He pledged the Board’s full alignment with the Minister’s policy direction, noting that the team would work collaboratively and diligently to realise the goals of a secure and prosperous maritime domain for Nigeria. 

The Honourable Minister also inaugurated the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, which he described as another critical pillar in Nigeria’s maritime and transport architecture. He said the new Board comes at a time when effective institutional leadership is needed to drive infrastructure development, regulate inland water activities, promote water transport and support economic integration across regions. 

Minister Oyetola reminded the NIWA Board that their role is to provide strategic policy guidance and supervision, in accordance with the NIWA Act, while operational execution remains the responsibility of the Managing Director and the management team. He drew attention to both the NIWA Act and relevant sections of the Public Service Rules and Public Procurement Act, which underscore the distinction between governance and management. He urged the Board to approach its duties with discipline, professionalism, and a clear understanding of institutional boundaries, adding that national interest and development must guide every decision. 

He formally inaugurated the NIWA Board, which is chaired by Hon. Musa Sarki Adar. Other members include Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, who also serves as the Managing Director; Mr. Hussaini Shettima; Mr. Jeminiwa Adewale Charles; Dr. Ndidi Jenifer Ozegbe; Engr. Prof. Sadiq Z. Abubakar; Surv. Kunle Olugbemiro; Capt. Tajudeen Alao; Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye; Capt. Jerome Angwunwe; and Hon. Hoplyn Euore Ayu. 

Speaking on behalf of the NIWA Board, the Chairman, Hon. Musa Sarki Adar, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust placed in them. He praised the Honourable Minister for his guidance and pledged the commitment of the Board to give their best in the service of the nation. He promised that the NIWA Board would work harmoniously with the management and operate within its mandate to ensure the Authority fulfils its role in facilitating inland waterways transportation and economic connectivity. 

In concluding the double ceremony, Minister Oyetola reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for both Boards and expressed confidence in the ability of the newly inaugurated members to discharge their responsibilities with honour and dedication. He reminded them that the task ahead is significant, but so too is the opportunity to effect meaningful and lasting change. He wished them a successful tenure and charged them to serve with clarity of purpose and a deep commitment to national development. 

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Oyetola Announces FG Commitment to Enhance Seafarers Profession

Oyetola Announces FG Commitment to Enhance Seafarers Profession 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Honourable Adegboyega Oyetola, CON today disclosed that Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, is committed to enhancing the seafaring profession.

Oyetola while presenting his key note address made this disclosure at J’S Signature  Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.  

This year's seafarer's theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” speaks to our collective duty to make every ship a safe, respectful workplace. Harassment and bullying have no place in our maritime industry.

 

"We are prioritizing quality training by upgrading maritime institutions, expanding capacity-building programmes, and aligning our seafarer education with international standards.

 

"We are committed to full compliance with the STCW Convention, including recent amendments mandating anti-harassment training onboard ships. These steps are vital to ensure our seafarers remain competitive and globally employable.

 

"Additionally, the government is investing in seafarers welfare through stronger regulation of recruitment and placement agencies, improving access to decent work, and collaborating with shipowners to guarantee fair treatment and onboard safety. 

"We are building digital platforms to connect seafarers with support networks and job opportunities worldwide, while advocating for improved working conditions through bilateral maritime agreements. The Ministry is also actively supporting Nigerian participation in international shipping to increase sea-time opportunities for cadets and professionals.

"We are also advancing the welfare and rights of Nigerian seafarers. The recent Collective Bargaining Agreement, facilitated by NIMASA alongside industry unions and employers, sets a new benchmark for fair wages, decent working conditions, and improved dispute resolution. NIMASA continues to enforce flag and port state controls, and promote Nigeria’s presence in global shipping, ensuring our seafarers are well-protected and respected internationally.

 

"Today, we celebrate you, our seafarers, not just for your labour but for your courage. We pledge to continue building a maritime sector that values, protects, and empowers you. Happy Day of the Seafarer". Oyetola concluded.

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