Headlines

Oyetola predicts excess revenue from Blue Economy with 90 percent growth

– set to overtake NNPCL in revenue generation

Funso OLOJO

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that there is a silent revenue explosion in the Blue Economy industry in Nigeria with the potential to overtake the legendary Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited(NNPCL) in revenue generation.

Oyetola, who was speaking to journalists on the sideline of the 2025 Day of the Seafarer held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday June 25th, 2025, said the industry has already generated revenue in excess of 90 percent and is not looking back in its race to outdo the NNPCL.

The Minister said with automation, modernization of the nation’s ports and the deployment of technology, the Blue Economy will be the next cash cow for the country.

He further stated that the Ministry was

doing its best to unlock the potential for the growth of the Nigerian economy through job creation and environmental sustainability.

“I want to assure you, even right now, within a little time, we’ve increased our revenue by not less than 90 per cent.

” We’re just not making noise about it, but with automation, with the modernisation of the port, with the development of technology, we believe that the Blue Economy will surpass the NNPC revenue.

“We’re doing our best to ensure that we’re able to unlock the potential of the options for the growth of the Nigerian economy, job creation and environmental sustainability.”

“In the past, there was no operating policy. We succeeded in putting a policy in place that is very robust and has met the world’s best standards.

“It is a policy that defines in clear terms the operation of the Blue Economy in Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, in what appears to be a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a smarter, more transparent, and efficient maritime sector, the federal government has launched a Maritime Labour E-Platform to digitalise the governance of maritime labour.

Oyetola, who officially unveiled the digital platform at the Port Hacourt event, said the platform is more than just a portal, but offers real-time data access, enhances regulatory compliance, and creates a centralised system for labour administration.

“This E-Platform is a bold step toward digital governance, improved service delivery, and industry-wide innovation.

” The platform offers real-time data access, enhances regulatory compliance, and creates a centralised system for labour administration.

“I commend NIMASA for this forward-looking initiative, which aligns perfectly with our Ministry’s vision of ease of doing business, global competitiveness, and human capital development in the blue economy.”

While encouraging maritime stakeholders to embrace the new platform and make full use of its capabilities, he remarked that this year’s theme of The Day of the Seafarer “My Harassment-Free Ship,” speaks to the collective duty to make every ship as a safe, respectful workplace.

“Harassment and bullying have no place in our maritime industry. We are prioritising quality training by upgrading maritime institutions, expanding capacity-building programmes, and aligning our seafarer education with international standards.”

“We are committed to full compliance with the STCW Convention, including recent amendments mandating anti-harassment training onboard ships.

” These steps are vital to ensure our seafarers remain competitive and globally employable,” he said.

The Minister assured that the government is investing in seafarers’ welfare through stronger regulation of recruitment and placement agencies, improving access to decent work, and collaborating with shipowners to guarantee fair treatment and onboard safety.

“The recent Collective Bargaining Agreement, facilitated by NIMASA alongside industry unions and employers, sets a new benchmark for fair wages, decent working conditions, and improved dispute resolution.

” NIMASA continues to enforce flag and port state controls, and promote Nigeria’s presence in global shipping, ensuring our seafarers are well-protected and respected internationally,” he stated.

Nevertheless, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, called on Shipowners, operators and crewing agencies to review their operational manuals to align with the amendments to the MLC 2006 code.

The MLC 2006 codes, it was gathered, addressed issues affecting Seafarers such as recognition of seafarers as key workers, improved protection against shipboard violence and harassment, enhanced access to shore leave, repatriation, and updated medical and occupational safety standards.

“At the recently concluded 113th session of the International Labour Conference held in Geneva, seven amendments to the MLC 2006 code addressing a broad range of issues affecting Seafarers, including the recognition of seafarers as key workers, improved protection against ship board violence and harassment, enhanced access to shore leave and repatriation and updated medical and occupational safety standards were approved by an overwhelming majority.

“These seven amendments reflect a collective global effort to align maritime Labour standards with the evolving landscape of global shipping.

” I therefore call on Shipowners, operators and crewing agencies to begin to review their operational manuals to align with these amendments ahead of the expected entry into force in December 2027.

“Our Seafarers must be able to report grievances without fear of retaliation, while also ensuring protection against vexations or malicious complaints.”

Dr Mobereola however urged government, employers, unions, shipowners, and civil society not to leave Seafarers alone in their struggles.

He also argued that a vessel is not just a seafarer’s place of work but a temporary home that must reflect the highest standards of dignity and professionalism, fostering zero tolerance for harassment.

‘Today provides an opportunity for the Maritime Community to honour Seafarers globally for their immense contribution to both domestic and international trade, powering the blue economy and connecting nations across oceans.

“The theme for this year’s celebration — “My Harassment-Free Ship” — is particularly apt, as it is a call to action to ensure that our seafarers feel safe, are valued and protected while at sea because the ship is not just their place of work; it is their temporary home.

“It must therefore reflect the highest standards of dignity and professionalism fostering zero tolerance for harassment.

“NIMASA must therefore continue to play its part in ensuring that Nigeria contributes effectively to regulations affecting Seafarers.

“We remain the highest contributor of Seafarers in Africa. Our men and women sail on vessels in our domestic waters and also globally.

” This will continue to grow through the Nigerian Seafarers Development Program (NSDP) and the efforts of our Maritime Training Institutions.”

Dr Mobereola, who further stated that a harassment-free ship is a cohesive ship, stated that Nigeria will create confidential reporting channels for incidents of harassment and ensure that reports are thoroughly investigated and addressed.

“In addition, NIMASA will play its role by establishing clear policies and procedures for preventing and addressing harassment on Nigerian–flagged vessels, ensuring confidential reporting channels for incidents of harassment and that reports are thoroughly investigated and addressed.

“Today is a clear reminder to us all – government, employers, unions, shipowners, and civil society- that Seafarers should not be left alone in their struggles.

” They look up to us to help them foster a culture of zero tolerance on ships to protect their dignity.”

Headlines

FG takes safety on waterways campaign to Ogun, donates 3500 life-jackets to waterways operators.

Funso OLOJO

As part of efforts to enhance the safety of waterways across the nation, the federal government has donated 3500 life-jackets to Ogun State Government for waterways operators in the state.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who handed over the life-jackets on Tuesday, assured Nigerian inland waterways users that the ministry will stop at nothing to curb the needless loss of lives on waterways.

Represented by Director of Maritime Services in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mercy Ilori, the Minister said the campaign is part of a deliberate national strategy to embed a culture of safety on our inland waterways.

“This is one of the most comprehensive Federal government responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways.

“Consequently, there have been successful handovers of Safety life jackets at Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States.

” We are now in Ogun State to sustain the momentum and reveal the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Ogun.

“You will all agree with me that the frequency and tragic consequences of boat mishaps across the country are deeply concerning.

“It is in recognition of this menace that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to prioritize life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change.”

He stressed that the government’s commitment to end the needless loss of lives on waterways is anchored on three pillars: Strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; Continuous public education and sensitization campaigns; and Provision of critical safety equipment, notably life jackets, to waterway users.

“It is worthy to note that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), a key agency under the Ministry, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this strategy.

“NIWA continues to lead in regulation, monitoring compliance, and supporting education and enforcement efforts on our inland waters,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, assured the Minister that the life jackets will be distributed equitably to registered operators across the state.

The Governor, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, stated that safety on the nation’s waterways wasn’t a privilege but a right of everyone in Ogun State.

He also assured that the State is ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain the momentum but to enhance inland waterways as viable and secured alternative to road infrastructure.

“Safety on the waterways is not a privilege, it is a right.

” Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future secured.

” This initiative aligns with the human capital development pillar of our administration’s ISEYA agenda ensuring that people remain at the heart of our progress

“Ogun State values the synergy we have fostered with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and applauds their dedication to the development of marine infrastrucnare, safety standards, and the blue economy as a whole.

” Ogun State stands ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain this momentum, not only in marine safety but also in enhancing inland waterways as viable and secure alternatives to road transport.”

“To our waterway users, boat operators, fishermen, and residents of our riverine communities: these life jackets are for you.

” But more importantly, the knowledge and awareness you will gain from this sensitization effort will serve as your daily companion, protecting you and helping you protect others.

“Ogun State hereby assures the Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy and NIWA that these life jackets will be equitably distributed to verified and recognised operators across the state’s waterways, from Iwopin to Ebute-Ero, from Agbara to Tongeji, Imakun Omi to Ode-Omi, and other active riverine corridors.

” A strict monitoring and maintenance protocol will be enforced to ensure sustainability and accountability.”

The State Governor, however, warned that State actors would not allow preventable tragedies define the nation’s waterways

“As we continue to embrace innovation and development in transportation, we must also embrace accountability and responsibility.

“Let us not allow preventable tragedies to define way of life, let us instead champion the principles of safety, respect for life, and collective vigilance.”

However, the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, warned that the issue of safety on the inland waterways cannot be over emphasized as he recounted several tragic incidents that claimed lives in hundreds.

“The issue of safety can never be over-emphasized. In June 12, 2023, a wooden boat carrying wedding guests returning from a marriage ceremony from Niger State capsized in Jeva Channel Lake, in River Niger in Kwara State, owing to overloading and a submerged tree.

“The boat was reported to be carrying over 200 guests despite having the capacity of carrying just less than 100 passengers.

“More than 200 lives were lost, among which a father and four of his children were involved. So you can imagine the kind of tragedy that befell the family.

“Again, in October 1, 2024, a wooden boat carrying mostly women and children traveling for religious festive occasions capsized in Niger State.

“The boat was reported to be carrying over 300 passengers even though it has the capacity of carrying less than 100 passengers. More than 100 lives were lost.”

NIWA Managing Director, who was represented by Engr. Elsie Egwuatu, observed that in the respective cases the boats were heavily overloaded, sailed at night without the proper navigational aids and conveyed passengers without life-jackets.

“So if you think safety is expensive, try disaster. Over 90 percent of accidents that happen on our waterways are caused by human error.

“In most cases, it is caused by captain’s negligence. The newly gazetted Marine and Transport Regulations Codes, which spells out offences and punishments, ranging from fine to imprisonment, mandates the compulsory use of life jackets for all waterways users sailing on our waterways,” she added.

Also speaking, the National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Alhaji Tarzan Balogun called for intensified regulatory efforts to prioritize safety and infrastructural development on Nigerian waterways.

Alhaji Balogun commended the government for its efforts in promoting safety across the country’s inland waterways, even as he assured that the life jackets would be used judiciously.

“There must be a firm policy — no life jacket, no entry. I’ve witnessed several cases where passengers refuse to wear them. That should not be allowed. Safety must come first,” he said.

Balogun also praised the federal government, particularly President Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, for their commitment to maritime safety and for recognizing the importance of life-saving gear in water transport.

“If you’re drunk or perceived to be a threat to others onboard, operators must have the authority to refuse you entry.

” There is also the problem of bringing animals onboard, especially dogs who can scare passengers onboard and make boats capsize,” he stated.

Balogun also called on the Ogun State Government to emulate Lagos by setting up a dedicated waterways authority and constructing jetties in collaboration with local boat operators.

Headlines

Dangote supports NPA -led One stop shop committee with brand new bus for enhanced operations

Funso OLOJO

The President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has commended the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for the effective way it has handled the implementation of the Federal Government’s policy on domestic sales of crude oil and refined products in Naira.

To this end, Alhaji Dangote has donated a brand new Coaster bus to the OSS Committee to further ease its operations.

In a letter signed personally, Alhaji Aliko Dangote assured that his organisation will continue to explore ways of supporting the committee to sustain its successes in the implementation of the presidential directive.

The Letter reads in part: “In recognition of the enormous responsibility placed on shoulders of the One Stop Shop (OSS) by the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and our commitment to ensuring the committee delivers on its mandate, I am pleased to donate to the committee one (1) brand new Coaster bus to facilitate the daily discharge of their operations.

“We believe this bus will be used productively by the committee as we continue to look for ways to support and appreciate the efforts of this noble committee

Recall that the Chairman, Technical Sub-Committee, on the implementation of the Federal Government’s policy on domestic sales of crude oil and refined products in Naira, Zacch Adedeji, had during a recent visit to NPA, commended the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) Team, led by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for ensuring smooth operations of the directive.

He thanked the team led by NPA for “playing a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the presidential directive on the domestic sales of crude oil and refined products in Naira”

Adedeji said: “We recognize that this pioneering effort is a significant achievement, and no doubt reflects your commitment and patriotism”.

“Thus, we encourage you to maintain the hard work and dedication that has made this initiative a success.

“We also extend our gratitude to all participating agencies for their invaluable cooperation and support,” Adedeji said.

Headlines

CRFFN Registrar talks tough over Court judgement nullifying collection of POF, declares Customs agents will continue to pay despite court ruling.

–vows to appeal the judgement.

Funso OLOJO / Gloria Odion

The Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding Practice in Nigeria(CRFFN), Mr Kingsley Igwe, has vowed that the Council will appeal the Lagos High Court judgement which nullified the collection of Practitioners Operating Fee(POF) by the CRFFN from Customs Clearing Agents.

It would be recalled that in 2018, the National Council of Managing Directors of Licenced Customs Agents(NCMDLCA) approached a Lagos High Court in order to stop the collection of the controversial POF which commenced in 2017.

However, seven years later, on May 26th, 2025, Justice D.E Osiagor , ruled that the collection of POF from the Customs Agents by the CRFFN was illegal, contending that the council only have control over freight forwarders but not customs agents.

But in a swift reaction, the Council’s Registrar said the Customs agents are within the sphere of control of the CRFFN and are therefore mandated pay the POF.

Quoting copiously from the Customs Act 2023, Mr Igwe said the Customs agents are part of the freight forwarding profession.

” The Nigerian Custom Service Act, 2023, further reinforces the regulatory role of CRFFN over customs agents who operate within the freight forwarding value chain, notably Section 106, Subsection 4 of the Nigerian Custom Service Act, 2023, states, and I quote, a customs representative, if you like, a customs license agent, shall be a freight forwarder.

“I repeat, a customs representative, if you like, a customs agent, shall be a freight forwarder, and shall be subject to the regulations and code of conduct of the freight forwarding profession in Nigeria, in this case, a profession regulated by Council for Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria”

” This provision legally integrates custom representatives into the freight forwarding profession, making them subject to the regulatory control and code of conduct established by CRFFN”

The council Registrar therefore vowed that the court judgement will be appealed.

” The Council’s legal team is thoroughly reviewing the contents, the context and legal implication of the said judgments and reaffirm that where necessary, the Council will exercise its rights of appeal, review or clarification through competent judicial channels”

The Registrar also condemned what he described as a secretive manner in which the court process was carried out without informing the defendants.

“I wish to express deep concern over the secretive manner in which it was issued reportedly without due notice to the defendants as named in the suit.

” Such a process somehow is contrary to expected principles and processes as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The Council views this report as the handwork of some mischief makers to derail the peace reforms and progress achieved in the freight forwarding sector in recent times”

He said that the court judgement would not stop the Council from collecting the POF, ” because the appeal never mentioned that they should stop paying POF”

” It only declared it illegal. It didn’t say stop, henceforth.

“So the collection of POF is continuous. And as a matter of fact,this is not against court ruling”

” I want to be clear on that. Because court never said stop collecting. It’s two different things.

“So that people don’t misunderstand it that way. Then, we’re already almost at the point of submitting the appeal. And we will pass the same submission” Igwe declared.

He therefore urged the freight forwarding practitioners to go about their normal duties and continue to pay the POF.

Igwe also declared that the plaintiff, the Council of Managing Directors which instituted the court process is under the control of the CRFFN ” and they will pay and continue to pay the POF”

He therefore asked the freight forwarders to continue to discharge their obligations under the CRFFN by paying the required practitioners fee pending the matter is resolved in the Court.

“POF is not a tax or a revenue level. But a statutory fee gazetted by the Federal Republic of Nigeria and created under the powers conferred on CRFFN by its establishing acts.