Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that the National Maritime Policy that is before the Federal Executive Council will accelerate growth in fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining.
Speaking at the panel discussion during the third Maritime Transportation Breakfast Meeting organised by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association in Lagos, the minister added that the policy would also create a sustainable economic growth path for the sector.
Represented by the Director of Maritime Services of the ministry, Dr Mercy Ilori, Oyetola reiterated that the policy “would accelerate growth in fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining.”
He further noted that the national marine and blue economy policy remained vital for developing Nigeria’s maritime sector and ensuring environmental sustainability.
The Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Mr. Daniel Odibe, commended the Federal and the Lagos State governments for developing coastal roads to improve port accessibility.
He emphasised that the road network is crucial for port efficiency and holds significant growth potential.
“We have infrastructure to scan 100 per cent of cargo, but we currently scan between 40 and 50 per cent of goods. We scan cargoes within 30 seconds of positioning. Lekki Deep Sea Port is the hub for local transshipment. In 2024, we began transhipping cargoes to Warri and are considering routes to Calabar and Onitsha to reduce road congestion,” Odibe explained.
With a 19-metre water draft, 16 metres of which are operational, Odibe said the port could accommodate larger vessels.
He also confirmed that the Lekki Deep Sea Port’s capacity had increased to 90 hectares and millions of twenty-foot equivalent units, with a faster vessel turnaround time.
GIK/APA