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Jamoh’s two years of revolutionary stewardship in Nigeria’s maritime industry

Bashir Jamoh, DG, NIMASA

Eyewitness reporter

On March 10th, 2020, exactly two years today, Dr Bashir Jamoh officially took over from his predecessor, Dr Dakuku Peterside, as the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

During the handing over ceremony which took place at the Corporate Headquarters of the agency, Dakuku Peterside, while handing over the mantle of leadership to Dr Jamoh, said he could not have wished for a better successor because Jamoh, a “homegrown” administrator per excellence, possesses the requisite institutional knowledge that would immensely benefit the industry.

Dakuku couldn’t have been more accurate about Jamoh because the maritime industry has witnessed unprecedented changes in character and contents since the Kaduna state-born, hard-core technocrat took over.

The whirlwind of impactful changes which were initiated by Jamoh has touched all the facets of maritime administration such as maritime security, maritime safety, port state control, flag state control, maritime labour, capacity building and even the staff of the agency have benefitted from the immense managerial capacity of Jamoh through enhanced welfare packages.

For the first time in 17 years, the piracy level in the notorious Gulf of Guinea drastically reduced within the two years in office of Jamoh, a feat which attracted commendation of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Below are the chronicles of the achievements of Jamoh- led administration within the two years he assumed duties as the Director-General of NIMASA.

OPERATIONS/ACTIVITIES OF NIMASA

MARITIME SAFETY

The Agency continues to improve its port and flag state functions which is the core of maritime safety. The performance of the Agency in this regard in the last 4 years is highlighted below:

Port State Inspection (PSI):

Year	PSI	% Diff
2017	525
2018	659	38% (Increase)
2019	725	10% (Increase)
2020	510	-29.65 (Decrease)

Total port state inspection in 2019 was 726 vessels of the 5,035 vessels calls which represent a 10% improvement from the preceding year and 14.42% of the total ship call. This is however short of the 15% requirement under IMO by 0.8% of which we are working hard to surpass.

Total port state inspections in 2020 were 510 of 4,728 vessel calls. (COVID-19 lockdown impacted negatively on the Port State Inspections)

Year	FSI	% Diff
2018	1,737
2019	2,580	49% (Increase)
2020	2,244	13% decrease

In 2019, the Agency performed a total of 2,580 flag state inspections representing 2,123 renewal inspections, 276 condition surveys and 181 Random Flag State Surveys. This showed a 49% increase from the 1,737 Total Flag State Inspections carried out in 2018 comprising 1,241 Flag State Renewal Inspections, 381 Condition Surveys and 115 Random Flag State Surveys. However, the decrease in 2020 is attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Marine incidents/accidents:

Sadly, the Agency recorded 22 marine incidents in 2019 and 21 in 2018. Investigations were carried out while some are still ongoing.

NIMASA has put in tremendous efforts to mitigate the tide of maritime insecurity in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea through several maritime domain awareness interventions and collaborative efforts.

NIMASA’S EFFORTS IN ADDRESSING MARITIME INSECURITY IN NIGERIA AND THE GULF OF GUINEA

Passage of the Suppression of Piracy and other Maritime Offences Bill

Establishment of integrated national maritime surveillance and security infrastructure
International Ship and Port Facility Security (Code) Implementation: The implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code has steadily impacted the level of security in the nation’s port areas and facilities.
Resuscitation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System(GMDSS) Equipment
The Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity (RMAC) Centre
International collaboration: NIMASA is currently engaging international stakeholders, including BIMCO, INTERTANKO, INTERCARGO, International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and Oil Companies International Maritime Forum-OCIMF, under the auspices of NIMASA/Industry Maritime Security Work Group (NIWG) to entrench coordinated response to piracy attacks
Institutionalization of Collaboration with National Authorities: The Agency has spearheaded the institutionalization of the collaboration between her and other frontline maritime agencies for improved maritime safety and security and efficient port operations.

CAPACITY BUILDING MILESTONES

Human Capacity Development

Statutory financial contribution to Maritime Academy, Oron

Nigerian Seafarers Development Program (NSDP): 40/60 ratio

50/50 ratio 100%

Currently, the Agency has trained over 2600 Nigerian Seafarers in various credible maritime institutions UK, Egypt, Philippines, Malaysia, etc.
Recently, the Agency secured the placement of over 400 cadets on board ships for the mandatory SEA-TIME training to make them globally competitive and employable.
NIMASA also sent some of its staff on long term training abroad to build internal capacities in various aspects of the maritime industry at the prestigious World Maritime University.

INDIGENOUS SHIPPING CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

Procurement of the 5th largest modular floating dockyard in Africa to reduce the cost of ship repairs and maintenance

This milestone achievement comes under a unique Fund known as the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), designed to provide financial assistance to Nigerian Operators in domestic coastal shipping to own vessels and enhance their competitiveness.

Fiscal and Monetary Policy Initiatives: We have continued our engagement with the MDAs to entrench appropriate fiscal and monetary policy initiatives to pave way for the competitive participation of indigenous operators in shipping activities in Nigeria. These include but are not limited to:

A push for the change in terms of trade from FOB to CIF for the affreightment of crude oil (NNPC) • Single-digit interest rate for the maritime sector (CBN/NEXIM BANK/AFRIEXIM) • Concessionalforeignexchangerateforshipacquisition(CBN) • EngagementwithOfficeoftheVicePresident/EconomicManagementTeam

We continued our engagement with state governments to buy into our cargo support initiative aimed at creating a cargo pool for affreightment by indigenous operators.

 Ship Tonnage Growth: Aggressive repositioning of the Nigerian Ship Registration Office (NSRO)

 The Nigerian Ship Registration Office recorded 13.8% tonnage growth from 2018 to 2019.  
 This trajectory of growth was negatively impacted by the global covid-19 pandemic.  
 However, the Nigerian Ship Registry ranks second in tonnage measurement in Africa after Liberia which operates an open and more flexible registry.   Remodelling and commissioning of NIMASA Knowledge Centre E-Library  The facility is open to staff, students/researchers and external stakeholders/maritime operators to increase the knowledge base of the  Nigerian Maritime Sector

SPECIAL INTERVENTION: COVID-19 RESPONSE AND CSR

The Executive Management of NIMASA recognized from the outset the significant impact of the Corona Virus (COVID-19) Pandemic on the Transport Sector in Particular and the Global socio-economic activities in general, hence set up a multi-disciplinary Committee within the Agency to provide an informed risk assessment with appropriate responses.  

A major intervention of the Agency in ensuring the continued flow of trade was the declaration of Seafarers as KEY WORKERS to facilitate vital crew changes and excuse duty. Nigeria was among the first maritime nations to declare such and was commended by the IMO.

Corporate Social Responsibility support to Federal and State government by the following donations to Federal & State authorities:  

Cash donations of 30 Million Naira (N30,000,000.00) to the Federal Government Committee on COVID-19 Intervention

20 Million Naira (N20,000,000.00) cash donation to the Lagos State COVID-19 Intervention Task Force B. Provided human capital/personnel support in the following areas:

 Medical Personnel  Drivers  Logistic officers

Deployment of the Agency’s Fire brigade trucks to fumigate Apapa and its environs.

LOGISTICS SUPPORT IN THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

State	36-Seater Coaster Bus	16-Seater coaster Bus	Ambu-lance	Fast intervention Marine Vessels	Personal protective Equipment (PPEs)
Abuja	1	1	1
Lagos	1	1	1	2
Rivers	1		1	2 (Onne and Port Harcourt)
Delta		1	1	1
Cross River		2 (PSC to source)		1
Kaduna		2

SPECIAL INTERVENTION: CSR FOR FLOOD VICTIMS AND IDP CAMPS

The Agency presented relief items to victims of flood disasters across the nation. Also, internally displaced persons as a result of the insurgency were not left out of Agency’s Corporate Social Responsibility. Among the 20 states covered across the 6 geo-political zones are:

Kaduna State
Kano State
Cross River State  
Delta State  
Lagos State  
Niger State

VII. Benue State VIII. Ogun State IX. Ondo State

COMMENDATIONS

The IMO in December 2020 applauded our efforts in the fight against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea Region The Specialized Organ of the United Nation had earlier supported our action declaring Seafarers as key workers to facilitate crew changes during the COVID-19 induced international lockdown.

Recently, the IMO gave institutional backing to NIMASA’s Marine Litter Action Plan. These and many more are evidence of our collaboration with the IMO.

The global shipping and economic climate was greatly impacted by the following in 2020 all through 2021:

COVID-19
Lockdown
Disruption in the global supply chain; and
Slow down the economic activities across the globe.

Maritime Safety:

Flag State Implementation (FSO) – Vessels inspected/surveyed in accordance with the safety requirements of the MSA 2007

Conduct of Condition survey for Flag Registration

Comparing the number of vessels surveyed for flag registration relative to the previous year, it can be observed that the 2021 figure (489 vessels) is 43.6% higher than the total number of condition surveys carried out in 2020 (276 vessels).

Para-meter	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Total
Total No of Condition Surveys for Flag Registration conducted in 2020	32	29	36	14	7	22	24	28	10	31	18	25	276
Total No of Condition Surveys for Flag Registration conducted in 2021	26	19	19	24	32	75	74	44	34	50	43	49	489

Port State Control (PCS) 229 foreign vessels boarded to ensure that such vessels maintained safety/pollution standard while in our ports and waters.

Port State Control Implementation

Comparing the number of vessels boarded relative to the previous year, it can be observed that the 2021 figure (673 vessels) is 24.2% higher than the total number of inspections carried out in 2020 (510 vessels).

Examination and Certification

Total exam conducted for officers at various capacities and certification for years 2020 and 2021

OFFICERS 2021

The total number of examinations conducted 829
Total candidate passed and certificated 264, forming a percentage of 32%
The total candidates failed 565, forming a percentage of 68%
Total certificate revalidated 2021: 246 certificates.

OFFICERS IN 2020

Total number of examinations conducted 610
Total candidates passed and certificated 251, forming a percentage of 41%
Total candidates failed 359, forming a percentage of 59%
Total certificate revalidated 2020: 132 certificates.

EXAMINATION RATINGS IN 2020

The total number of examinations conducted 1,251
Total candidates passed and certificated 926, forming a percentage of 74%
Total candidates failed 325, forming a percentage of 26%

EXAMINATION RATINGS IN 2020

The total number of examinations conducted 1,327
Total candidate passed and certificated 990, forming a percentage of 74%
Total candidates failed 337, forming a percentage of 26%

Online Seafarers Certificate of Competency (CoC) Verification Platform reactivated

The project has drastically reduced the forgery of Nigerian certificates and enhanced the employment of Nigerian Seafarers in the maritime sector.

Enforcement of Safety Regulations on Barges and Tug Boards (Operation Sting Ray)
ISO 9001 Quality Assurance Certification for the operation of the Maritime Safety Department Approval of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System for the Maritime Safety and Seafarers Standard Department by Bureau Veritas (BV) in April 2020.
Revival of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) equipment – Necessary for sending alerts in an emergency. The GMDSS is to ensure the safety of life at sea.
Marine Accident Investigation Data/Information

Marine Pollution Prevention and Control

Marine Environment Management

Nigeria has entered into MoU with Maritime Transport Coordination Centre (MTCC) on Climate Change for Africa to commence activities towards ensuring GHG emission reduction in the maritime sector with emphasis on achieving 0.5% Sulphur Oxide (SO2) in Bunker fuel oil.

Awareness creation
Establishment of bunker (fuel oil) supply register
Accreditation of laboratories for testing bunker oil
Capacity building on the emission of reduction; and
Establishment of Compliance monitoring and Enforcement Team (CMET)

IOPC 92

Produced manual for the admissibility of claims under the fund.

The manual is to contain the price index for determining the quantum of claims for settlement in case of oil pollution.

Update on the Trinity Spirit FPSO

Maritime Security:

Deep Blue Project:

The Deep Blue Project was flagged off by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, 21st May, 2021.

The Agency has taken delivery of key assets of the Deep Blue Project including:

Two Special Mission Vessels (SMVs)
Seventeen Fast Interceptor Boats (FIBs)
Two Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs)
Sixteen Armoured Vehicles

Some of these assets have been deployed to the Nigerian Navy for its operational use.

The Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity (RMAC) Centre

Provision of the Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity (RMAC) Centre Kirikiri by the US Navy Upgraded to SEA VISION to allow for monitoring of vessels along the West and Central African region.

NIMASA/Industry Working Group

International collaboration among major international stakeholders in the maritime/shipping sector.

To entrench coordinated response to piracy and other criminalities on the Nigerian waters and prompt reportage and escalation of marine incidences to where the action is most expected and to provide navigational advisory to mariners.

The Maritime Security & Intelligence Unit

For intelligence and information gathering and sharing that can help to stop piracy.

Collaboration with Security Agencies

At the strategic level, the Agency ensures a close liaison with the offices of the NSA , CNS, Chief of Air Staff, Chief of Army Staff and the IGP.

The Agency has played a pivotal role in the institutionalization of the collaboration between her and other government agencies for improved maritime security and safety.

ISPS

The total number of currently operational onshore facilities in the ISPS unit is Ninety-eight (98) divided into six maritime zones.

For ease of administration because of their locations & accessibility, some zones are further subdivided.

In 2020 VIEs carried out as detailed below for the four (4) quarters

Lagos subdivisions
1. Apapa – 9
2. Kirikiri – 12
3. Ijora & Ijegun – 8 in first & second quarter & 11 in last quarter
4. Tincan – 8
Port Harcourt – 11
Calabar – 9
Onne – 9
Eket – 4
Warri – 16

Total 87 (Eighty–Seven)

In 2021 VIEs carried out as detailed below for the four (4) quarters

Lagos subdivisions
1. Apapa – 10
2. Kirikiri – 12
3. Ijora – 7
4. Ijegun – 7
5. Tincan – 8
Port Harcourt – 13
Calabar – 8
Onne – 10
Eket – 3
Warri – 17

Total 96 (Ninety–Six)

Shipping Promotion and Capacity Development

Shipping Promotion
- Concessions to boost indigenous ownership
- Strengthen enforcement of Cabotage to boost local participation
- Capactiy Development
- Human – Natural Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) – Training of over 2,600 Nigerian Seafarers in various maritime institutions worldwide and a good number of them who have completed their programmes are no gainfuully employed onboard vessels.
- Assets – Approval for CVFF disbursement to assist in vessel acquisition by indigenous Nigerian Shipowners – Most Nigerian Operators in domestic coastal shipping now own vessels and enhance their competitiveness.
- Learning Infrastructure Upgrade
  - Completion of the renovation and furnishing of the conventional library
  - Digitization of the convention library books/other resource materials
  - Renewal of e-library management software:

2022 in Focus

Strengthen our maritime safety and security enforcement mechanisms
Organise a stakeholders’ engagement towards harnessing the potentials of a blue economy
Enhance revenue for increased contribution to the consolidated revenue fund
Movement of the Agency’s Headquarters to its newly acquired building in Victoria Island.
Operationalization of the floating dock
Establishment of regional maritime safety and security training centre
Build regional maritime search and rescue clinic
Resuscitate Lokoja office
Construction of NIMASA zonal offices (Central zone and Eastern zone)

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NSW will not subsume B’Odogwu Customs trade platform — Fakolade

Gloria Odion

Tola Fakolade, the Director of Nigeria National Single Window Project has stated that the celebrated National Single Window project which first phase is due for official roll out in March,27th, 2026 is not a substitute for the Customs trade platform commonly called B’Odogwu, neither will the presidential initiative subsume the Customs platform.

Fakolade make this clarification against the rising fears that the multi- million dollar indigenous platform created by the Customs to enhance its operations and meant to replace the previous foreign – created portal, will be jettisoned at the berth of NSW.

However, he further clarified that the NSW will operate alongside the B’Odogwu Customs Management System, describing the two platforms as complementary.

“The B’Odogwu system handles core Customs processes such as valuation and risk management, while the National Single Window serves as the single-entry portal for traders to submit documents and applications for approvals,” he said.

Fakolade also declared that NSW will not replace any government agency involved in trade facilitation but will instead integrate their processes to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency.

He explained that the system is designed to ensure that once a release is issued by the Nigeria Customs Service, it would already reflect the risk assessment and compliance requirements of other port-related regulatory agencies.

According to him, key trade agencies were involved from the early stages of the project, with each nominating technical representatives who contributed to the development of the platform.

He noted that the system has already identified and addressed several duplicated processes that previously slowed cargo clearance and added no value to port operations.

Fakolade also disclosed that extensive training has been ongoing for over a month for end-users including importers, exporters, freight forwarders and officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

He added that training sessions are being conducted physically at designated centres that accommodate between 30 and 50 participants, while additional learning resources and explanatory videos have been made available online.

Fakolade added that when the platform goes live on March 27, 2026, initial services will include applications for import licences, certificates and permits for agencies such as Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, as well as manifest submissions by shipping lines and airlines.

Meanwhile, Princess Chi Ezeh, Vice President (Seaports) of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), commended the committee driving the NSW Nigeria for recognising freight forwarders as critical stakeholders in the reform initiative aimed at improving trade facilitation in the country.

Ezeh noted that the decision to engage freight forwarders during the awareness and consultation stages of the project demonstrates that the implementation team understands the strategic role operators play in Nigeria’s port and logistics ecosystem.

She added that during the engagement sessions, freight forwarders were able to highlight some operational challenges they face at the ports, which the project team assured would be addressed.

She expressed optimism ahead of the planned launch of the National Single Window, urging the implementation team to ensure that the system is properly structured to enhance trade facilitation rather than create additional delays in cargo clearance processes.

Also speaking, the Chairman of APFFLON Tincan Chapter, Alhaji Akeem Ayobiojo, assured that freight forwarders would play their part in ensuring the success of the initiative by submitting accurate documentation and complying with the required procedures.

He stressed that transparency and professionalism from operators are essential to achieving the project’s goal of reducing cost, saving time and improving efficiency in Nigeria’s port operations.

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Port modernisation, NSW: the dual trade facilitation tools deployed by NPA to enhance efficiency for economic growth

Funso OLOJO, Editor

Nigeria’s maritime sector, the gateway through which over 80 per cent of the nation’s international trade flows, is undergoing a sweeping transformation, which is being midwifed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho.

Anchored on port modernisation, digital trade facilitation and institutional reform, the new maritime policy direction is designed to reposition Nigeria’s seaports as competitive hubs within the global shipping ecosystem.

Last week, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) released its 2025 report showing that the nation’s maritime sector recorded a historic surge in activity, driven by increased cargo throughput, rising container traffic, and a growing export footprint — a development that underscores the federal government’s commitment to economic diversification.

The 2025 Operational Performance Report released by the NPA revealed that total cargo throughput surged by 24.8 per cent rising from approximately 103.6 million metric tons in 2024 to over 129.3 million metric tons in 2025.

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, described the growth as one of the most significant annual increases in Nigeria’s maritime history, noting that the milestone strengthens the country’s position as a more competitive and strategic player in regional and global trade.

The outstanding performance did not just happen overnight, it is a result of the transformative reforms of the federal government.

For decades, the nation’s ports struggled with a lot of constraints.

However, President Bola Tinubu is reversing the trend through an ambitious reform programme driven by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under Adegboyega Oyetola and implemented largely by the Nigerian Ports Authority under the leadership of its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.

At the centre of the reform strategy are two interconnected initiatives: the comprehensive modernisation of Nigeria’s port infrastructure and the deployment of the National Single Window (NSW), a digital platform designed to streamline trade documentation and eliminate bureaucratic delays.

Ahead of the flag off of NSW, the NPA put the structures in place and is fully ready. The NPA being a critical stakeholder in the NSW initiative has fully aligned its operational processes with the NSW platform.

In furtherance of this, NPA has been part of the NSW Committee, which has been working with the NSW Project Team, KPMG, and Crimson-Logic.

These engagements have focused on ensuring seamless integration of the Authority’s Revenue Invoice Management System (RIMS 2.0) with the NSW architecture.

Several strategic, operational and technical decisions have been taken to align current processes with the national framework.

In line with Phase 1 of the NSW go-live, NPA has participated in a series of technical and strategic engagements with the NSW Project Team and implementation partners, complete initial User Acceptance Testing (UAT), inauguration of Transition Committee of the NSW and the development and delivery of all requested system endpoints (integration codes) to enable process alignment between NPA and NSW platforms.

Together, these initiatives represent one of the most far-reaching attempts to unlock the economic potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector and position it as a critical engine of national growth.

Nigeria’s ports have long been central to the country’s economic architecture. Yet for many years, they have been constrained by infrastructural decay and operational inefficiencies.

Experts estimate that Nigeria loses more than N1 trillion annually due to the lack of port automation and modern infrastructure, as congestion, delays and administrative duplication increase logistics costs for businesses and discourage shipping lines.

In addition to these financial losses, inefficient port operations have undermined Nigeria’s regional competitiveness.

West African ports in countries such as Ghana, Togo and Benin Republic, equipped with modern facilities and digital trade systems, have captured significant volumes of cargo originally destined for Nigeria.

The result has been a paradox: Africa’s largest economy operating with ports that have struggled to match the capacity and efficiency of smaller neighbouring economies.

Addressing this gap has therefore become central to the maritime reform agenda of the Tinubu administration.

Ports Reconstruction and Modernisation

A cornerstone of the reform programme is the large-scale reconstruction and modernisation of Nigeria’s major seaports.

The federal government has initiated an ambitious infrastructure renewal plan targeting key facilities including Apapa, Tin Can Island, Port Harcourt, Warri and Calabar ports.

The objective is to upgrade quay walls, deepen channels, modernise cargo-handling equipment and expand terminal capacity to accommodate larger vessels and increased trade volumes.

The strategy reflects a recognition that efficient ports are indispensable to economic growth.

Modern ports reduce vessel turnaround time, lower freight costs and enhance supply chain efficiency, factors that directly influence a country’s competitiveness in international trade.

Early indicators suggest that these reforms are already beginning to produce measurable results.

Nigeria’s cargo throughput recorded a significant surge in recent years, rising by 45.1 per cent to 103.3 million tonnes, while ship calls increased to more than 4,000 vessels across Nigerian ports. Container traffic also climbed to 1.74 million TEUs, reflecting growing trade activity and increased export shipments.

These improvements highlight the economic potential that could be unlocked when infrastructure upgrades are combined with operational reforms.

One of the most immediate advantages of port modernisation is the improvement in operational efficiency.

Many of Nigeria’s major ports were constructed several decades ago and have struggled to cope with the demands of modern shipping and cargo handling.

Ageing quay walls, shallow drafts, obsolete equipment and limited cargo-handling capacity have often resulted in congestion and long vessel waiting times.

Modernisation programmes that involve infrastructure upgrades, channel deepening and the deployment of modern cargo-handling equipment will significantly reduce vessel turnaround time and cargo dwell time.

Faster port operations mean ships spend less time waiting to berth, while cargo is cleared more quickly, improving the overall efficiency of the logistics chain.

Inefficient ports often translate to higher logistics costs for importers, exporters and shipping companies.

Delays in cargo clearance lead to additional charges such as demurrage, storage and handling fees, which are ultimately passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.

By improving infrastructure and operational processes, port modernisation will lower these costs and make Nigerian ports more attractive to shipping lines and international investors.

This could also reverse the long-standing trend of Nigerian cargo being diverted to neighbouring ports in countries such as Benin Republic, Togo and Ghana.

Digital Transformation Via NSW

Infrastructure alone, however, cannot deliver a competitive port system without complementary digital reforms.

This is where the National Single Window (NSW) initiative becomes critical.

Last week, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, announced that Nigeria will launch the National Single Trade Window platform on March 27.

He described the initiative as a monumental reform aimed at transforming the country’s trade ecosystem by simplifying procedures, improving efficiency and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.

According to him, the initiative, which was first introduced by President Bola Tinubu nearly two years ago, represents a far-reaching fiscal reform designed to modernise Nigeria’s trade processes.

“We are about to launch yet another reform, fiscal reform by this administration, which in its nature will be very transformational,” he said.

The NSW is designed as an integrated digital platform that enables traders to submit all import, export and transit documentation through a single electronic interface rather than interacting with multiple government agencies.

The NSW seeks to eliminate these inefficiencies by creating a unified digital ecosystem that integrates all trade-related processes.

The implementation of the National Single Window adds a critical digital dimension to these reforms.

The NSW is an integrated electronic platform that allows traders to submit all import and export documentation through a single portal rather than dealing separately with multiple government agencies.

In the traditional system, importers and exporters are required to process documentation with several regulatory bodies, including customs, port authorities and inspection agencies.

This fragmented process often leads to duplication, delays and bureaucratic bottlenecks.

The National Single Window eliminates these inefficiencies by integrating all trade-related processes into one digital ecosystem.

The result is faster cargo clearance, improved transparency and greater accountability in port operations.

Digital platforms reduce human intervention in administrative processes, thereby minimising opportunities for corruption and revenue leakages.

In addition, real-time information sharing among stakeholders enhances coordination and improves decision-making across the maritime value chain.

From a macro economic perspective, these reforms have the potential to significantly boost government revenue and stimulate economic growth.

Efficient ports facilitate increased trade volumes, which in turn lead to higher customs duties, port charges and related maritime revenues.

Improved logistics infrastructure also supports export-oriented industries by ensuring that Nigerian products can reach international markets more efficiently.

Furthermore, modern ports and digital trade systems can attract foreign direct investment into sectors such as shipping, logistics, manufacturing and maritime services.

Investors are typically drawn to economies with reliable infrastructure and efficient trade systems, and the ongoing reforms are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global trading environment.

Ultimately, the combined impact of port modernisation and the National Single Window will extend beyond the maritime sector.

By improving trade facilitation, lowering logistics costs and enhancing revenue generation, these reforms will contribute to broader economic diversification and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.

Analysts project that a fully operational National Single Window could boost customs revenue by 10 to 20 per cent annually, translating into an additional N600 billion to N1.2 trillion in government earnings.

Beyond revenue generation, the system could reduce cargo dwell time by 35 to 45 per cent and cut overall trade transaction costs by up to 25 per cent.

Such improvements would significantly enhance Nigeria’s logistics performance and ease of doing business.

NPA’s Operational Leadership

The successful implementation of these reforms depends heavily on the institutional leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

Under the leadership of Abubakar Dantsoho, the NPA has intensified efforts to modernise infrastructure, strengthen digital systems and improve operational efficiency across the nation’s port network.

The authority’s reform agenda includes the deployment of advanced automation tools such as the Port Community System, the Vessel Traffic Management System and digital cargo tracking platforms.

These initiatives are designed to enhance real-time coordination among port stakeholders and create the technological backbone required for the National Single Window to function effectively.

The impact of these reforms is also reflected in the financial performance of the NPA.

The authority generated N894.86 billion in revenue in 2024 and is projecting N1.28 trillion in revenue for 2025, driven largely by increased cargo traffic, digital automation and infrastructure upgrades.

Additionally, the NPA remitted a record N400.8 billion to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) in 2024, nearly double the amount remitted the previous year.

These figures underscore the growing economic significance of Nigeria’s maritime sector when supported by effective institutional leadership.

Oyetola’s Policy Coordination

While the NPA handles operational execution, the broader policy direction guiding the reforms comes from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy led by Adegboyega Oyetola.

The establishment of the ministry itself marked a strategic shift in Nigeria’s economic planning by recognising the maritime domain as a critical driver of national development.

The blue economy encompasses a wide range of activities including shipping, fisheries, marine transport, offshore energy and coastal tourism.

For Nigeria — with over 850 kilometres of coastline and vast maritime resources — these sectors represent enormous untapped economic potential.

Oyetola’s policy framework focuses on strengthening maritime governance, enhancing regulatory coordination and attracting investment into port infrastructure and maritime services.

By aligning policy reforms with infrastructure upgrades and digital transformation, the ministry aims to build a maritime ecosystem capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic diversification.

Expanding Maritime Trade

Another key objective of the reform programme is to position Nigeria as a major maritime logistics hub in West and Central Africa.

Nigeria’s geographic location already places it along some of the busiest shipping routes connecting Europe, Asia and the Americas with Africa.

However, inefficiencies in port operations historically prevented the country from fully capitalising on this advantage.

With modern infrastructure, improved digital systems and streamlined regulatory processes, Nigeria’s ports could become the preferred destination for cargo serving the West African sub-region.

Evidence of this emerging potential can already be seen in the growing role of ports such as Lekki Deep Sea Port, which has significantly increased container traffic and trans-shipment volumes.

The development of modern ports alongside improved inland logistics networks could transform Nigeria into a regional redistribution centre for maritime trade.

Economic Multipliers

The broader economic implications of these reforms extend far beyond the port terminals themselves.

Efficient ports stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and international trade.

Faster cargo clearance reduces production delays for industries that rely on imported raw materials, while improved export logistics enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian products in global markets.

Digital trade systems also improve transparency and reduce revenue leakages, strengthening government finances.

In addition, maritime infrastructure investments create employment opportunities across engineering, logistics, information technology and port operations.

Analysts estimate that a fully operational digital maritime ecosystem could generate over 100,000 direct and indirect jobs across the logistics and ICT sectors.

Such economic multipliers highlight why the maritime sector is increasingly viewed as a strategic pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy.

Charting Nigeria’s Maritime Future

The reforms being implemented in Nigeria’s maritime sector represent one of the most significant structural transformations of the country’s trade infrastructure in decades.

By combining port modernisation with digital trade facilitation, the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is laying the groundwork for a more efficient and globally competitive port system.

With strong policy coordination from Adegboyega Oyetola and operational leadership from Abubakar Dantsoho at the Nigerian Ports Authority, the maritime sector is gradually being repositioned as a major driver of national economic growth.

If sustained and fully implemented, these reforms could transform Nigeria’s ports into modern logistics gateways capable of supporting industrial expansion, regional trade integration and long-term economic prosperity.

In many ways, the success of this maritime transformation will not only redefine the efficiency of Nigeria’s port system but also shape the country’s role in the future architecture of global trade.

Headlines

Realtors seek partnership with Lagos Govt on Omi Eko waterways transportation project.

Funso OLOJO, Editor.

The €410m foreign creditors – backed Omi Eko water transportation project of Lagos state government has received a big boost with the interest shown by the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI).

The professional Realtors have approached the Lagos state government through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) to explore areas of collaboration around Lagos State’s expanding water transportation system and its broader Blue Economy potential.

The delegation was led by Akin Opatola, President of FIABCI Nigeria and Mr. Adeniji Adele, President of FIABCI Africa and the Near East, as well as senior officials and members of the international real estate federation.

The delegation was received by Mr Emmanuel Oluwadamilola, the General Manager of LASWA who also doubles as Special Adviser on Blue Economy to the Governor of Lagos State.

The two parties discussed the Lagos State’s ambitious efforts to modernize its inland waterways transport system through the OMI EKO Water Transport Project.

The LASWA General Manager outlined the strategic direction of the project and its role in transforming urban mobility across Lagos.

According to him, the initiative is designed to decongest Lagos roads, improve productivity, reduce transportation costs, and lower carbon emissions, while positioning water transportation as a central pillar of Lagos State’s urban mobility strategy.

He further disclosed that the project will introduce modern ferry operations supported by electrified vessels, upgraded terminals, and integrated transport infrastructure, creating a cleaner and more efficient water transport ecosystem.

Mr Oluwadamilola further told FIABCI delegation that OMI EKO project is supported by a strong international financing structure including, Agence Française de Développement (AFD) – €130 million loan, European Investment Bank (EIB) – €170 million loan, European Union – €60 million grant

Lagos State Government – €40 million counterpart funding

Private sector participation in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).

Also, the project will deliver 15 ferry routes across Lagos waterways,

Dredging and marking of approximately 140 kilometers of navigable channels,

Development of 25 modern ferry terminals and jetties, Deployment of electric ferries, Integrated ticketing and improved waterway safety infrastructure.

Following the presentation, members of the visiting FIABCI delegation engaged the LASWA leadership in a round of questions and observations, seeking further clarification on the implementation framework of the OMI EKO project.

Members of the delegation sought insights into issues including terminal development opportunities, private sector participation, integration with urban planning, and the long-term investment potential of Lagos’ water transport corridors.

Mr. Oluwadamilola further elaborated on the project’s structure and the strategic vision of Lagos State to position water transportation as a key pillar of the state’s evolving Blue Economy.

Speaking during the meeting, FIABCI Nigeria President, Akin Opatola, noted that the modernization of Lagos waterways presents a strategic opportunity to rethink how cities integrate transport infrastructure with real estate and urban development.

Opatola emphasized that major water transport infrastructure projects such as the OMI EKO initiative create new corridors of economic activity, particularly around ferry terminals and waterfront locations.

He stated that the real estate sector has a critical role to play in supporting such infrastructure through transport-oriented development, waterfront regeneration, and the creation of mixed-use economic hubs that can stimulate sustainable urban growth.

He further noted that FIABCI members, as professionals in the real estate and development ecosystem, are keen to explore ways in which urban planning, investment, and property development can align with Lagos State’s water transportation expansion.

Also speaking, Mr. Adeniji Adele, President of FIABCI Africa and the Near East, observed that Lagos is uniquely positioned to become a leading example in Africa of how coastal cities can leverage their waterways to drive mobility, economic development, and sustainable waterfront investment.

He noted that global cities that successfully integrate their waterways into urban life often unlock significant real estate and tourism value, and expressed optimism that Lagos could replicate similar outcomes as the OMI EKO project unfolds.

Ubong Essien, Founder of the Blue Economy Academy, emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, industry professionals, and investors in delivering large-scale maritime infrastructure initiatives.

Essien noted that Nigeria’s experience in strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea demonstrated that successful sector transformation often begins when all stakeholders are brought to the table at the earliest stages of major projects.

He also pointed out that the 25 ferry terminals planned under the OMI EKO project represent significant opportunities for transport-oriented waterfront development across Lagos, creating new intersections between mobility infrastructure, urban development, and the Blue Economy.

The visit underscores the growing recognition of Lagos waterways as a strategic mobility and economic infrastructure for Africa’s largest city.

It could be recalled that the Omi Eko project was launched in October, 2025.