The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that the federal government is improving navigability and connectivity on the nation’s inland waterways to unlock opportunities for hinterland trade and regional integration.
At an industry event in Lagos, Oyetola noted that the ministry prioritised safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Represented by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) managing director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, the minister said major inland routes were connected across the country to enhance trade and integration.
“Through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), we are improving navigability, safety, and connectivity across major inland routes, unlocking opportunities for hinterland trade and regional integration,” Oyetola stated.
He added that the nation’s seaports, shipping corridors, inland container depots, and intermodal connections form the arteries through which the Blue Economy will flourish.
“The promise of a thriving Blue Economy cannot be realised without a robust, efficient, and integrated logistics and transport system. The ability to move goods, people, and services seamlessly — by sea, land, and air — is the lifeblood of commerce and the foundation of industrial growth,” he said.
Oyetola emphasised that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognised the Blue Economy as the next frontier for economic diversification beyond oil.
“The creation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy underscores our collective commitment to reposition this vital sector as a key driver of national growth, innovation, and sustainability,” he added.
The minister further revealed that the government has developed a comprehensive 10-year National Blue Economy Strategy to align maritime, fisheries, logistics, and coastal development policies within a unified, sustainable framework.
He also highlighted the importance of private sector participation in driving growth in the sector.
“We are creating an enabling environment for private investment through regulatory reforms, public-private partnerships (PPP), and targeted incentives that will drive innovation and job creation across the value chain,” he said.
