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Nigeria seeks to expand its revenue base through  exploitation of Deep Seabed resources

Funso OLOJO
Worried by the crippling economic crunch due to the restricted income base, the Federal government has given ministry Of Marine and Blue Economy a matching order to activate the mechanism that will enable the country to tap into its vast deep Seabed resources for enhanced economic activities.
As a result, the ministry, in collaboration with the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has convened a two- day  workshop to sensitise relevant stakeholders on the need to explore and exploit resources in Deep Seabed.
The stakeholders’ sensitization workshop, held in Abuja between September 18th- 19th, 2024, was part of government efforts to diversify the economy.
Speaking at the workshop,the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola emphasized that Nigeria’s extensive coastline and inland waterways make it an ideal player in the emerging deep-sea exploration sector.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Oloruntola Olufemi, Oyetola added that the transition from a fossil fuel-based to a mineral-based economy also presents opportunities for Nigeria to leverage its marine resources, particularly wave and tide energy, to generate clean energy.
He noted that effective utilization of these resources will substantially contribute to Nigeria’s energy needs.
He said, “Nigeria’s establishment of a full-fledged Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 demonstrates our commitment to diversifying our economy and capitalizing on the global surge in deep-sea exploration. As a major oil-producing country with an extensive coastline and inland waterways, we cannot afford to lag in this new frontier.
“This workshop aims to raise awareness among critical stakeholders about the importance of Deep Seabed exploration and exploitation, addressing environmental and social implications and  ensuring effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects that may arise from deep seabed activities.”
Also speaking, Director, Maritime Safety and Security Bombata Babatunde, said the Ministry and NIMASA remains committed to promoting collaborative efforts with key industry players, driving innovation, and championing sustainability.
“As we convene here today, we acknowledge the relatively uncharted terrain of deep seabed activities. The workshop aims to illuminate the opportunities and importance of exploring Africa’s continental shelf while ensuring responsible environmental management and adherence to regulatory frameworks, “he said.
In his presentation, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola stated that
Deep seabed exploration and mining offer a unique opportunity for Nigeria to expand its maritime resources, align with the global shift towards sustainable development, and promote economic growth.
According to him, deep sebed mining would unlock new revenue streams, thereby contributing  significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, and creating thousands of jobs.
He said, “Exploring Deep Seabed Mining holds the key to new revenue streams/economic benefits as you gain access to unexploited mineral resources. It is estimated that global demands for some of such minerals will rise as much as 400-600% in the coming decades as the world increases its reliance on wind and solar power, electric vehicle batteries and other zero-carbon technologies.
“Reduced Carbon Print – Decarbonization
Technological innovation arising from the development of specialized equipment and techniques.
“Job creation: Employment opportunities in exploration, extraction and processing.
Economic diversification.
Sustainable resource management.
Ocean based renewable energy integration.
Research and Development.
Eco – tourism and conservation.
Reduced reliance on land based mining which will decrease environmental impact on land.
The DG noted that while deep seabed mining offers significant economic opportunities, it is not without challenges especially as its concerns potential environmental impact and inadequate Regulatory framework.
For Nigeria to fully maximize and benefit from it’s deep seabed  mining activities, the NIMASA boss advocated for a robust legislation for seabed mining, stakeholders engagement and thorough environment impact assessments to minimize potential damage to ecosystems
“NIMASA will play a critical role by collaborating with relevant MDAs and the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in providing the regulatory framework and establishing environmental protection guidelines for seabed mining.
“The Agency could also help develop training programs to grow local expertise in deep seabed mining technologies and operations. Promote Research and Development in marine science and technology to enhance knowledge of deep-sea ecosystems and resource potential.
“We remain committed to ensuring that relevant legislative frameworks on the sustainable use of the Marine Environment and Safety standards are fully implemented.
“It is also crucial that the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 is amended to reflect relevant provisions of ISA’s model of legislation on exploration and exploitation.
“Nigeria has long benefited from its offshore oil and gas resources.
“As we look to the future, deep sea mining presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to diversify its economy and secure long-term economic growth. It is an integral part of the Blue Economy, promising technological advancement, resource security, and job creation. However, this potential can only be realized if we proactively address the associated environmental, technical, and regulatory challenges, ” he said.
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Customs

KLT Customs reaffirms commitment to stronger maritime stakeholder engagement

Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter
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‎The Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deepening engagement with stakeholders across the maritime industry in line with efforts to promote trade facilitation, transparency, and sustainable economic growth.
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‎Adigun gave the assurance through the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration, Comptroller T.A. Jonah, who represented him during a courtesy visit by the newly elected Executive Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to the Command in Lagos.
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‎The Acting CAC, who was unavoidably absent, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and key industry stakeholders, particularly the maritime media, in advancing the Service’s mandate and supporting national economic development.
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‎He described the media as a critical partner in disseminating information on government policies, customs reforms, trade facilitation initiatives, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations.
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‎According to him, maritime journalists occupy a strategic position in shaping public understanding and perception of activities within the port and maritime sector, stressing the need for professionalism, accuracy, and balanced reportage in the discharge of their duties.
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‎Adigun further assured the MARAN delegation that the KLT Area Command would continue to operate an open-door policy while fostering cordial and productive relationships with stakeholders within the maritime community.
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‎Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, stated that the visit formed part of the association’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative following the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee.
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‎Onigbinde explained that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the association to the Command and strengthen the longstanding relationship between MARAN and the Nigeria Customs Service.
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‎He commended the KLT Area Command for its contributions to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and enforcement activities, describing the Command as a vital component of Customs operations within Nigeria’s port system.
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‎The MARAN President also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professional, objective, and development-driven journalism, noting that maritime reporters play a significant role in promoting informed discourse on issues affecting the industry.
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‎He further assured the Command of MARAN’s continued support for initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Nigeria’s maritime sector through responsible and factual reporting.

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Headlines

One infant, three adults die, several others sustain injuries in fatal train derailment along Warri- Itakpe route 

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the death of four passengers in a train derailment along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State on Monday, June 8th, 2026.
Several others suffered various degrees of injuries.
In a statement by the Ministry of Transportation  and signed by its Permanent Secretary, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the victims included two female adults, one male adult and one infant.
The accident involved four coaches which reportedly capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives.
The statement confirmed that a total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.
The NRC had activated immediate rescue and evacuation operations with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the Police, Civil Defence, local authorities, security agencies, and other emergency responders, and were completed by 6:30 p.m on Monday .
The Injured passengers were evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment.
 Other notable individuals on board included the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, among others.
As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention.
One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
“The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.
“The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, the Special Rescue and Emergency Team, medical personnel, and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts” the statement declared.
The ministry said full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities while efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.
The Ministry in conjunction with the NRC have commenced a full investigation into the cause of the accident while efforts will continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary support to those affected.
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Commentaries

Why Nigeria must prioritize competency development and standards to harness gains of  blue economy

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
Nigeria is endowed with vast maritime resources which offer enormous opportunities for economic growth, employment generation, food security, and environmental sustainability.
With its fabled over 850 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea, the country is naturally blessed to emerge as a hub for maritime activities in Africa.
However , taking advantage of these huge massive maritime opportunities should be the priority of Nigerian government which must be intentional on developing competency level of its Maritime professionals and raise their
adherence to international standards.
The blue economy encompasses diverse sectors including shipping, fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, offshore energy, maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and marine environmental management.
 These sectors are highly knowledge-driven and require a workforce equipped with specialized skills and globally recognized certifications.
Without competent professionals, Nigeria risks losing economic opportunities to countries with better-trained maritime personnel and stronger institutional frameworks.
Competency development is essential for enhancing productivity, safety, and operational efficiency across the maritime sector.
Skilled seafarers, marine engineers, port operators, logistics professionals, and environmental experts are critical to ensuring that maritime activities meet international best practices.
 As global shipping and offshore industries become increasingly technology-driven, continuous training and capacity building are necessary to keep Nigerian professionals competitive in the international labour market.
Skilled maritime professionals such as seafarers, marine engineers and allied personnel in the sector could be sources of foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria as they could be exported to the international community.
Philippines and India are the world’s top exporters of skilled maritime personnel such as seafarers where they get the chunk of their foreign exchange.
If Nigeria could develop such capacity in skilled labourers in the sector and export their expertise, the country could harvest bountifully from such venture.
Equally important is the adoption and enforcement of internationally recognized standards.
Standards provide the framework for quality assurance, safety management, environmental protection, and operational excellence.
Compliance with global maritime standards established by organizations such as the International Maritime Organization(IMO) and the Nautical Institute enhances Nigeria’s credibility as a maritime nation and attracts foreign investment.
Investors and international partners are more likely to engage with institutions and businesses that demonstrate compliance with recognized benchmarks.
That is why the recent certification of the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited by the  UK Nautical Institute is germaine to Nigeria’s quest to develop training capacity and build compliance with standard procedures
This feat also underscores the importance of world-class training institutions in building local capacity.
That is why the  government should give necessary assistance to training institutions in Nigeria such as Maritime Academy of Nigeria(MAN),  Oron and the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited.
Such government patronage and assistance will not only improve the quality of maritime training in Nigeria but also position the country as a regional centre  for maritime education and professional development.
Prioritizing competency development and standards will also contribute significantly to maritime safety and environmental sustainability.
Well-trained personnel are better equipped to prevent accidents, manage maritime risks, and respond effectively to emergencies.
 Furthermore, adherence to environmental standards helps reduce marine pollution, protect biodiversity, and ensure the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, which are fundamental pillars of the blue economy.
From an economic perspective, a competent workforce and strong standards framework can increase Nigeria’s participation in global maritime trade, create high-value jobs, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and improve the country’s competitiveness.
 It also supports local content development by enabling Nigerian professionals and companies to meet the requirements of international contracts and projects.
In conclusion, competency development and standards are not optional components of Nigeria’s blue economy strategy; they are foundational requirements for its success.
 By investing in human capital, strengthening training institutions, and enforcing internationally accepted standards, Nigeria can fully harness the immense potential of its maritime resources and transform the blue economy into a major driver of national development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.
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