The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for greater accountability and data-driven reforms to reposition Nigeria’s maritime sector for innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth.
He made the call on Friday while addressing participants at the 7th Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference (TAAM 7.0), held at the University of Lagos. Represented by the Director of Maritime Services, Dr. Mercy Ilori, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to overhauling critical port infrastructure through digital transformation and environmentally responsible practices.
Oyetola said the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by the Bola Tinubu administration was a strategic move to harness Nigeria’s vast coastal and marine resources for economic development. He revealed that the Federal Executive Council has approved a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy to serve as the framework for unlocking opportunities in ports, fisheries, ocean governance, renewable energy, coastal tourism, marine biotechnology, and climate resilience.
He disclosed that rehabilitation works have commenced on key port infrastructure under the Western Ports Rehabilitation Programme, including the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, while procurement processes are ongoing for similar projects in the Eastern Ports. These physical upgrades, he said, are being complemented by digital initiatives such as the Port Community System and the One-Stop-Shop platform, which are already enhancing efficiency and reducing cargo delays.
On shipping development, the Minister reiterated plans to revive the National Carrier through a public-private partnership. He also confirmed that the long-delayed Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) would soon be disbursed to indigenous operators to boost local shipping capacity.
According to him, the Ministry’s digitalisation drive across its agencies is already improving revenue generation, service delivery, and operational transparency.
Chairman of SIFAX Group and convener of the conference, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, represented by the Group Coordinating Director, Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, emphasised the need for urgent investment in modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. He said Nigeria’s vast coastline presents enormous potential for job creation, improved port competitiveness, and foreign investment—if properly harnessed.
Also speaking, the Group Head of Corporate Communications at SIFAX Group, Muyiwa Akande, said the company remains open to partnerships and sponsorships with other maritime stakeholders to deliver better value. He noted that SIFAX Group, with nearly four decades of operations across sectors such as maritime, aviation, hospitality, logistics, and oil and gas, has consistently provided impactful solutions. He added that the company’s philosophy goes beyond profit, as it remains committed to supporting communities, national development, and societal well-being.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Vice President of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Mrs. Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), represented by Mrs. Gloria Kanabe, stressed the importance of building smart, green, and inclusive port systems to drive sustainable maritime growth. She urged stakeholders to prioritise environmental protection and regional connectivity and encouraged young professionals to embrace innovation, leadership, and collaboration across sectors.
President of the Maritime Forum at the University of Lagos, Aderounmu Enoch Adewunmi, challenged young people to see themselves as leaders of today, not tomorrow. He called for ethical leadership, continuous innovation, and inclusive partnerships between academia, industry, and government. He also highlighted the Forum’s decade-long impact in empowering students through mentorships, internships, and signature initiatives such as the Maritime Masterclass, an educational excursion to Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the Jean Chiazor National Essay Competition.
The event featured insightful panel sessions with contributions from maritime experts, including the Director General of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, and Partner at Foundation Chambers, Mojisola Jaiye-Gbenle. The Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos, Professor Abiola Sanni (SAN), also delivered a keynote address on bridging the gap between academia and the maritime industry.
A 400-level Law student, Chinagorom Success, praised the event’s engaging atmosphere despite the rainfall. She commended the rich panel discussions and described the spoken word segment as a refreshing addition that lightened the otherwise formal setting.
The Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference has, over the years, established itself as a formidable platform that bridges the gap between town and gown, fosters meaningful dialogue between students and industry stakeholders, and nurtures the next generation of leaders in Nigeria’s blue economy.
