Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, calls for international investment, highlighting reforms, security gains, and port modernisation at London International Shipping Week.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on international investors to capitalise on the vast opportunities within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, describing it as a gateway to Africa’s economic transformation.

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Speaking on Thursday at the Africa Maritime and Shipping Assembly during the London International Shipping Week (LISW), held at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters, Oyetola was represented by NIMASA Director General Dr Dayo Mobereola.

In his keynote address titled “Navigating Regulatory Seas: Steering Africa’s Maritime Governance Towards Seamless Trade,” the Minister emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to regulatory reforms, port modernisation, maritime security, and sustainable shipping practices — key pillars making the country an attractive destination for investment.

“Our oceans and inland waterways are our lifeblood, our highways to prosperity, and the very arteries that will fuel the African Continental Free Trade Area,” Oyetola stated, highlighting the government’s goal to position Nigeria as the maritime hub of West and Central Africa.

The Minister also lauded the success of the Deep Blue Project, which has eliminated piracy in Nigerian waters for three consecutive years, earning commendation from the International Maritime Bureau.

“Security of our seas is non-negotiable,” he affirmed, noting continued investments in technology-driven surveillance and strong legal frameworks like the SPOMO Act.

Oyetola highlighted infrastructure advancements such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, showcasing Nigeria’s public-private partnership success.

With state-of-the-art facilities capable of berthing the world’s largest vessels, Lekki Port is poised to become a vital transshipment hub for landlocked African countries including Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

Sustainability was another focus, with the Minister reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to green shipping, eco-friendly port development, and climate-resilient coastal management strategies.

Addressing the challenges of fragmented maritime regulations, Oyetola urged for accelerated implementation of continental frameworks such as the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter to facilitate seamless trade and remove non-tariff barriers hindering the African Continental Free Trade Area’s potential.

Nigeria’s participation at LISW comes as the global maritime sector prioritises resilience, sustainability, and digital transformation.

Oyetola also sought support for Nigeria’s bid for a seat on the IMO Council for 2026–2027, stressing the nation’s role as a maritime security leader and advocate for Africa’s interests.

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“The regulatory seas ahead may be turbulent, but with a clear vision, a firm resolve, and a spirit of collaboration, we can navigate them successfully,” he concluded.