We’ll introduce reforms to enhance Blue Economy success, says Oyetola

*Visits Nigeria Shippers Council Headquarters in Lagos The Federal Government is committed to creating a conducive working environment for the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to streamline the handling of overtime cargoes at all ports in Nigeria, ensuring effective and efficient service delivery. Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, made this commitment during his recent visit to the NSC Headquarters in Lagos. Oyetola expressed his assurance that the government would address challenges faced by the NSC and implement necessary reforms to advance the Blue Economy agenda of the current administration. While he applauded the NSC’s contributions and achievements, he also voiced concerns over the deteriorating condition of port infrastructure, cargo overstay, and the activities of foreign fishing firms. The Minister emphasized that cumbersome bureaucratic processes contribute significantly to prolonged cargo clearance times, leading to frustration among shippers and the abandonment of containers at ports. Oyetola pledged to engage with the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to resolve the issue of abandoned cargoes and address related bottlenecks. During his visit, Hon. Emmanuel Jime, the Executive Secretary of the NSC, highlighted key issues that require immediate attention, including amending the NSC Act to establish effective port economic regulation. Jime emphasized the NSC’s role as a policy-making laboratory in the marine sector and its objective to position Nigeria as the Maritime Hub in the sub-Western Region. Jime also cited ongoing concerns for the NSC, such as implementing a one-percent (1%) freight stabilization fee on imports and exports, enforcing the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), and establishing a National Fleet. He expressed confidence in Minister Oyetola’s commitment to making a positive impact on the maritime sector. In addition to the NSC visit, Minister Oyetola also met with the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN). Chinyere Uromta, the Acting Registrar, appealed to the Minister to reconsider the exclusion of CRFFN from the federal budgetary allocation. She highlighted the crucial role the Council plays in the freight forwarding sector, contributing to the integrity of the supply chain and the Nigerian shipping industry. Uromta emphasized that CRFFN operates as a federal regulatory agency and serves as an international regulator of freight forwarding practices on a global scale. She called for an urgent amendment to the CRFFN Act to align with its professional status. Oyetola commended CRFFN’s efforts and expressed a willingness to consider their request.

FG proposes creation of national shipping carrier to revitalise maritime sector

The Federal Government is committed to revitalizing the maritime sector in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to enhance the welfare of Nigerians. During a recent facility tour of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency’s (NIMASA) Headquarters and various centres in Lagos, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, outlined his vision for the sector. Oyetola emphasized the need for transformative measures in the maritime industry to position Nigeria as a major player. One of his key recommendations is the establishment of a national carrier through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement to facilitate freight transport within the country. Notably, Nigeria stands as the only member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) without a national shipping line flying its flag. The Minister highlighted that creating a national carrier would help eliminate the burden of the 30% freight charge associated with chartering vessels. However, he clarified that his call for a national line should not be confused with advocating for the revival of the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL). Furthermore, Oyetola expressed interest in NIMASA’s Modular Floating Dock, recognizing its potential to generate employment opportunities and curb capital flight. He urged the agency to engage stakeholders to support this initiative. Addressing the potential of the Blue Economy, the Minister underscored that Nigeria, with one of the world’s largest wetlands, is well-suited for coastal tourism development. He also committed to exploring opportunities in fishing and other sectors to stimulate economic growth. Bashir Jamoh, the Director General of NIMASA, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for establishing a dedicated Ministry for the Maritime sector. This move has long been advocated by stakeholders and Nigerians. With the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, Nigeria joins seven other countries worldwide with standalone Blue Economy Ministries. Jamoh assured that this development positions NIMASA to elevate Nigeria’s global maritime presence.