-Our Inland waterways can generate ₦12trn annually if 28 states think differently

 Frank Meke

Listen, my people. Let me ask a simple question.

What kind of country has 10,000 kilometres of waterways, with 28 of its 36 states accessible by water, and waterways connecting it to five neighbouring countries, yet continues to struggle with transportation infrastructure and overdependence on roads?

That country is Nigeria.

We are sitting on water, yet dying of thirst.

For years, I have travelled across this country, from Badagry to Calabar, Lokoja to Makurdi, and Onitsha to Yenagoa.

Everywhere, I see the same contradiction: rivers with the potential to drive economic growth, yet largely underutilised for transportation, tourism and commercial activities.

Today, I sound both an alarm and a message of hope. Nigeria’s inland waterways are more than bodies of water. They represent wealth, tourism opportunities, food security, transportation, real estate development and a significant pathway to economic diversification.

The 28 states with access to navigable waterways must wake up, collaborate with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and develop a coordinated investment blueprint capable of transforming these waterways into viable, bankable investment destinations.

If we fail to act, another generation may watch countries such as Egypt maximise the economic potential of the Nile while Nigeria continues to underutilise the Niger and Benue rivers.

THE FACTS THAT SHOULD SHAME US

Let us begin with the facts.

Nigeria has approximately 10,000 kilometres of waterways with the potential to support year-round navigation for the transportation of bulk cargo and passengers. Of this figure, about 3,000 to 3,800 kilometres are seasonally navigable, according to NIWA.

Twenty-eight of Nigeria’s 36 states are accessible through inland waterways. This is a significant national economic asset that remains largely untapped.

The River Niger and River Benue constitute the country’s major inland waterways. Other important channels and water bodies include Cross River, the Porto Novo-Badagry-Lagos waterways, Lekki and Lagos Lagoons, Ogun-Ondo waterways, Benin River, Escravos Channel, Nun River, Imo River, Orashi River, Ethiope River, Oguta Lake, Lake Chad and the numerous creeks of the Niger Delta.

Combined with an 853-kilometre coastline, these waterways position Nigeria to strengthen its participation in regional and international maritime trade.

Yet, less than one per cent of the country’s freight reportedly moves through inland waterways, while about 61 per cent is transported by road. The consequences are evident: deteriorating roads, road accidents, high logistics costs and increasing pressure on existing transportation infrastructure.

Industry estimates suggest that Nigeria could generate as much as ₦12 trillion annually from its inland waterways if the necessary investments are made to unlock their potential.

That is ₦12 trillion! A significant economic opportunity capable of changing the fortunes of several states.

The World Aquaculture Society has also projected that Nigeria’s aquaculture sector holds the potential to generate $296 billion annually.

The question, therefore, is not whether Nigeria has the resources. The question is why we have continued to underutilise them.

THE MARITIME TOURISM VALUE CHAIN: NIGERIA’S NILE IS WAITING

Consider what Egypt has achieved with the River Nile.

The Nile supports significant cargo and passenger movements, including cruise tourism, with some four-day cruise packages reportedly costing as much as $500 per person. Egypt has successfully transformed its river into an economic and tourism corridor.

What, then, are we doing with the Niger and Benue?

Dredging the River Benue to Lokoja and the River Niger from Baro in Niger State towards the Atlantic Ocean to a minimum draught of 10 feet could significantly improve inland navigation and reduce travel time along key routes.

For instance, the proposed improvement in navigation could make it possible to travel from Baro to Onitsha by speedboat in about 90 minutes, compared with the estimated nine hours by existing means.

Imagine a Niger-Benue cruise linking the Lokoja Confluence, where the Niger and Benue meet, to Onitsha, Asaba, the Delta creeks and Lagos Lagoon.

Imagine tourists enjoying a river cruise, exploring the cultural attractions and natural beauty of communities along these waterways, including Oguta Lake and the beaches of Badagry.

There is also the opportunity to develop Lagos Lagoon tourism. The Allied Concessionaries and Blue Economy Alliance is already partnering with NIWA to promote marine tourism in Lagos through safe water transportation, recreation and hospitality services.

Our fishing festivals also offer enormous tourism potential. The Argungu Fishing Festival, which Runsewe worked to revive after 10 years of abandonment, could attract even more visitors if supported by safe and accessible waterways.

Nigeria can equally develop cultural river routes connecting historical communities, traditional institutions and riverine settlements, from the palaces along the Niger to the creeks of Bonny.

This is the maritime tourism value chain: boat builders, jetty operators, tour guides, waterfront hotels, restaurants, photographers, craft sellers, festival organisers and cruise operators.

The economic impact could be substantial. Each tourism corridor has the potential to support thousands of direct and indirect jobs across participating communities.

Yet, we still lack properly developed cruise services, organised riverine tourism packages and effective destination marketing. The opportunity is there, but the necessary investments and coordination are still missing.

FISHING AND AQUACULTURE: OUR WATER IS OUR FARM

Fish is a major component of the Nigerian diet, yet the country continues to rely heavily on imported fish to meet domestic demand.

One of the challenges is that many local fishermen operate with inadequate equipment, limited cold-chain facilities, insufficient processing infrastructure and inadequate access to modern aquaculture technology.

Nigeria’s waterways are naturally endowed with fish resources, including catfish, tilapia, croaker, shrimps, oysters and periwinkles. From Lake Chad to Oguta Lake, Cross River and the creeks of Bayelsa, the opportunities are enormous.

But we must begin to think differently.

The 28 states should consider developing aquaculture clusters along suitable waterways. Kogi could explore cage aquaculture, Ogun could develop pond clusters, Delta could promote shrimp farming, while Lagos Lagoon offers opportunities for oyster farming.

Fish processing must also become a priority. Establishing waterfront facilities for smoking, drying, packaging and preservation would create employment, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the export potential of locally produced fish.

There is equally an opportunity to develop water-based cold-chain transportation. A self-propelled barge transporting fish from Makurdi to Onitsha could help reduce spoilage and logistics costs compared with trucks navigating poor roads.

NIWA’s ongoing waterway clean-up programme, being implemented in partnership with Parts Central Limited, is an important step in this direction.

The project recognises that environmental sanitation goes beyond keeping waterways clean. It is also about creating safer and more productive waterways that can support commerce, transportation, fisheries, tourism and investment.

The principle is simple: cleaner water supports healthier fisheries, stronger livelihoods and greater economic returns.

FERRY AND WATER TRANSPORTATION: THE CHEAPEST ROAD WE ALREADY HAVE

Let me be blunt: Nigeria’s overdependence on road transportation has become increasingly expensive.

The country has approximately 195,000 kilometres of roads, with only about 30 per cent reportedly paved. Rising fuel prices, road congestion, accidents and deteriorating infrastructure continue to increase the cost of moving people and goods.

Inland water transportation offers an alternative. For bulk cargo, it can be 20 to 30 per cent cheaper than road transportation under suitable operating conditions. It also offers environmental advantages through lower emissions compared with road haulage.

The River Niger connects Niger, Kogi, Anambra, Delta and Bayelsa, while the River Benue links Benue, Taraba and parts of Kogi. Coastal states, including Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa Ibom, share interconnected waterways, creeks and lagoons.

Why, then, should a yam farmer in Makurdi struggle to transport produce to Onitsha when the waterways offer an alternative?

The answer lies in inadequate infrastructure, insufficient vessels and limited investment.

There is, however, a beginning. The Federal Government has approved approximately ₦14.6 billion for the procurement of modern boats and ferries to replace unsafe and obsolete wooden vessels. The initiative targets Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Kebbi, where waterways remain important transportation routes.

Lagos State has also demonstrated what is possible through its structured ferry transportation system, operated by Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA).

Its ferry network connects communities and terminals around Ikorodu, Apapa, Marina, CMS, Badore and other locations.

Lagos demonstrates that sustained investment in terminals, vessels, safety infrastructure and regulation can make water transportation a viable alternative.

If Lagos can do it, why can’t Kogi, Anambra, Delta and Cross River?

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has consistently emphasised the cost advantages of water transportation and the need for state governments to complement Federal Government initiatives.

The 28 states must not wait for Abuja to provide everything. They must invest in boats, construct jetties, develop terminals and establish mutually beneficial partnerships with NIWA.

Kogi State, under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has already expressed support for NIWA’s efforts to reposition the state’s waterways as a major driver of the Blue Economy.

As the confluence state, Kogi occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s inland waterway network. If Kogi gets it right, it could provide an important model for other states.

LITTORAL ESTATES AND RECREATIONAL HOLIDAYS: THE WATERFRONT IS THE NEW LEKKI

Let me tell us where the next Lekki could emerge. It may not necessarily be on land. It could be along our waterways.

Across the world, waterfront properties command significant value. From Dubai to Miami, Cape Town and London, people pay premium prices to live, work and relax close to water.

In Nigeria, however, many waterfronts remain underdeveloped. Several littoral communities are neglected, while beaches and recreational waterfronts struggle with inadequate infrastructure and environmental challenges.

We must begin to see these locations differently.

Planned waterfront estates could be developed in Lokoja, Onitsha, Makurdi, Yenagoa, Calabar, Epe, Badagry and Ikorodu. Such developments could incorporate private jetties, boat clubs, waterfront promenades and other recreational facilities.

There is also considerable potential for recreational holidays.

Oguta Lake could support weekend resorts and fishing lodges. The River Benue could accommodate fishing tourism facilities. Lagos Lagoon could host floating restaurants, while Ibeno Beach and other coastal destinations could be developed into accessible beach resorts.

Water sports, including kayaking, jet skiing and boat regattas, could become major attractions in suitable littoral communities.

Destination marketing is equally important. As the Blue Economy Alliance has communicated to NIWA, opening up littoral communities through destination marketing and resort promotion is central to developing Nigeria’s waterfront tourism potential.

Today’s tourists are looking beyond conventional city-centre hotels. They want unique experiences, natural scenery and opportunities to connect with local culture.

Nigeria’s 28 water-accessible states can offer these experiences if the right infrastructure and investment framework are established.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AND SUSTAINABILITY: IF WE KILL THE WATER, WE KILL OURSELVES

I will not pretend that all is well with our waterways. Many are facing serious environmental challenges.

Indiscriminate waste disposal, oil spills, environmental degradation, plastic pollution and uncontrolled sand dredging continue to threaten the health and productivity of our rivers and creeks.

The consequences are not merely environmental. They are human and economic.

More than 300 lives were reportedly lost on Nigerian waterways in 2023. Drowning accounts for more than two-thirds of boat fatalities, while available figures indicate that 90 per cent of victims were not wearing life jackets.

In 2024, under the leadership of NIWA’s former Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, reported fatalities reduced by 30 per cent, from an average of 330 to 231.

This was attributed to measures that included the deployment of 350 water marshals across the country to enforce the ‘No Life Jacket, No Boarding’ policy, reaching more than 300 communities.

However, waterway safety must go beyond life jackets. It requires clean waterways, dredged channels, properly marked navigation routes, effective waste management and the removal of dangerous debris.

Sustainability must become an integral part of every inland waterway investment plan.

Plastic waste should be converted into economic opportunities through waste-to-wealth initiatives. NIWA’s clean-up programme is already promoting approaches capable of creating employment for communities along the waterways.

There is also a need for marine spatial planning to establish clearly defined fishing zones, shipping lanes, conservation areas, tourism destinations and renewable energy zones.

Mangrove protection must be prioritised, particularly in the Niger Delta, where mangrove ecosystems serve as important carbon sinks and natural environmental buffers.

Most importantly, the communities that depend on these waterways must be actively involved in their protection and management.

Environmental stewardship is not merely an NGO concern. It is an economic necessity. No serious investor will commit resources to a polluted river, and no tourist will willingly patronise a contaminated lagoon.

Clean water is bankable. Dirty water is dead capital.

WHY THE 28 STATES MUST THINK DIFFERENTLY AND JOIN HANDS WITH NIWA NOW

Here is the crux of the matter.

For years, disagreements between some state governments and NIWA over the control of inland waterways have hindered effective collaboration and development.

The Supreme Court has affirmed NIWA’s regulatory authority over Nigeria’s inland waterways, providing a legal framework for the agency to discharge its responsibilities.

The focus must now shift from jurisdictional disagreements to economic cooperation.

The 28 states must embrace a different approach.

First, from competition to collaboration.

States must stop treating NIWA as an adversary and begin to see the agency as a strategic partner.

NIWA provides regulatory oversight and technical coordination, while states can drive infrastructure investment.

NIWA facilitates the regulatory framework, states develop jetties and terminals, and private investors operate commercially viable ferry services.

Second, from individual action to collective planning.

The 28 states cannot afford to pursue disconnected waterway development policies. Nigeria needs a National Inland Waterways Investment Blueprint, coordinated by NIWA and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, with clear responsibilities for federal, state and private-sector participants.

Third, from budget dependence to bankable investment.

States must look beyond annual budgetary allocations and develop projects capable of attracting private capital through public-private partnerships.

The SEALINK project, promoted with the involvement of NEXIM Bank, offers an important opportunity to improve regional and hinterland connectivity through the Niger-Benue waterway network. Its proposed infrastructure development presents significant investment potential.

Inland water transportation can move bulk cargo at a fraction of the cost of road transportation under suitable conditions. This is the kind of economic proposition investors must be encouraged to explore.

Fourth, from road-only transportation to multimodal connectivity.

Nigeria must integrate inland waterways with road, rail and seaport infrastructure.

The historical connection between waterways, roads and railways demonstrated the importance of an integrated transportation network.

Today, the country must reconnect these modes to create an efficient logistics chain: road to jetty, jetty to rail, and rail to port.

Countries such as Vietnam and Bangladesh have demonstrated the economic value of inland water transportation, with significantly higher freight shares moving through their waterways than Nigeria’s less than one per cent.

Fifth, from neglect to investment promotion through NIMBEX.

The inauguration of the committee for the Nigeria Marine and Blue Economy Expo (NIMBEX) provides another opportunity to attract investment into the sector.

The 28 states must approach the expo with bankable projects rather than speeches. They should present proposed jetty developments, ferry services, aquaculture parks, waterfront estates and tourism corridors.

Investors need viable projects, clear regulatory frameworks and credible partnerships.

THE BLUEPRINT I PROPOSE

As a journalist who has followed developments in the maritime sector for three decades, I believe Nigeria needs a practical and coordinated investment blueprint for its inland waterways.

Such a blueprint should include:

A comprehensive dredging programme:

Systematic dredging of the Niger and Benue rivers to the proposed 10-foot draught, alongside the development of suitable intra-coastal routes connecting Lagos, Badagry and Calabar.

Modern inland ports:

Upgrade Onitsha, Lokoja, Makurdi, Baro, Oguta and Ikorodu river ports through public-private partnerships.

A national waterway safety code:

Enforce compulsory life-jacket use, prohibit night sailing without appropriate navigation lights, prevent overloading and provide professional training for at least 10,000 boat captains.

A modern ferry fleet:

The 28 states should explore a joint programme to procure 500 modern ferries within five years, while encouraging local boat builders to participate in the supply chain.

Tourism corridors:

Develop five major tourism corridors: Lagos-Badagry, Niger-Benue Confluence, Onitsha-Delta Creeks, Cross River-Calabar and the Lake Chad Basin.

Aquaculture zones:

Establish 28 aquaculture clusters, one in each water-accessible state, supported by financing opportunities from institutions such as the Bank of Industry.

Littoral estates:

Identify suitable waterfront locations for planned residential estates, recreational facilities and resorts, supported by transparent land administration and secure titles.

Transparent revenue sharing:

Establish a framework for the equitable sharing of revenue from tolls, ferry services, fishing licences and tourism activities among NIWA, state governments and host communities.

If properly implemented, these initiatives could unlock enormous economic opportunities and contribute significantly towards the estimated ₦12 trillion annual revenue potential of Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The choice is ours: invest in this resource or continue to allow its economic value to go unrealised.

CONCLUSION: WATER IS LIFE, WATER IS WEALTH

I have said it before: Tourism is Life. Today, I add that Water is Life. Water is Wealth.

Nigeria has approximately 10,000 kilometres of waterways running through or connecting 28 states.

We have NIWA as the regulatory institution, a Federal Ministry dedicated to Marine and Blue Economy development, a national policy direction that recognises the importance of the sector, and investors who could be attracted by viable projects.

What we urgently need is the political will, institutional cooperation and strategic commitment of the 28 state governments.

Governors, I appeal to you: Do not allow your rivers to remain economic liabilities. Turn them into blessings.

Work with NIWA. Develop the jetties. Invest in modern ferries. Clean the waterways. Promote your waterfront.

Funso OLOJO, Editor

The African International Tourism and Entertainment Council (AITEC World) has officially launched on the global stage at the World Travel Market (WTM) London, calling for stronger international partnerships, collaboration and investment to unlock Africa’s vast tourism potential.

The global launch, held on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026, at the South Gallery, Room 20, ExCeL London, United Kingdom, brought together African tourism stakeholders, government representatives, tour operators, investors and media organisations participating in the international tourism marketplace.

The event marked the Council’s third major unveiling, following its regional launch in Abuja and continental launch in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Headlining the event was AITEC World’s Global Adviser and Honorary Senior Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, who challenged the international tourism community to move beyond conventional destination marketing and embrace investment-driven partnerships with African countries.

Speaking on the theme, “Come. Connect. Collaborate. Invest,” Onung described the message as a strategic call to action for building stronger tourism relationships between Africa and the rest of the world.

He explained that while the Abuja launch was designed to connect Nigeria and the Addis Ababa event to unite the continent, the London launch was intended to establish a stronger bridge between African destinations and the global tourism market.

“We launched regionally in Abuja to connect Nigeria. We launched continentally in Addis Ababa to connect Africa. Today, we launch globally here in London to connect Africa to the World and the World to Africa,” he said.

Addressing concerns about accessibility to African destinations, Onung rejected the perception that the continent was difficult to reach, insisting that Africa already possessed the necessary transportation and digital infrastructure to support international tourism.

According to him, the real challenge was no longer physical connectivity but the need to build meaningful relationships and partnerships capable of translating the continent’s tourism resources into economic opportunities.

“Africa is connected. From Uyo, where I arrived from a few days ago, to London where I am today, it is six hours. We have airports, we have seaports, we have fibre optics. What we need is not connection of cables, but connection of minds,” he stated.

Onung also spotlighted Akwa Ibom State’s tourism potential, citing its 129-kilometre Atlantic coastline, Ibeno Beach, the Oron Museum, which houses some of Africa’s oldest wood carvings, and the hospitality of its people.

He said the state, under Governor Umo Eno, was open to international partnerships and investment, adding that ongoing infrastructure development was positioning it to attract more visitors and tourism investors.

Making a strong case for genuine collaboration, the AITEC World adviser urged international tour operators and investors to see Africa as a destination for business partnerships and product development rather than merely a place for sightseeing.

“Africa does not need pity tourism. Africa needs partnership tourism. Do not come to Africa to take pictures of poverty. Come to Africa to build products with us. Collaborate with our tour operators, our museums, our cultural festivals,” he declared.

He explained that such partnerships would stimulate employment, strengthen local enterprises, promote cultural institutions and improve the economic wellbeing of host communities.

Describing AITEC World as a council rather than a travel agency, Onung said the organisation was established to bridge the gap between African tourism destinations and international markets.

He argued that increased tourist arrivals alone would not deliver the full economic benefits of tourism unless accompanied by investments in infrastructure, cultural assets and tourism enterprises.

“Visit is good. But investment is better. Africa has 1.4 billion people, 60 per cent under 25. The future of global tourism is African. The world will come to Africa because Africa has what the world no longer has: authentic culture, untapped destinations and natural warmth,” he added.

He identified investments in Akwa Ibom’s tourism and supporting infrastructure, including Arise Park, Ibom Hotels and the state’s road network, as evidence of the state’s readiness to engage international partners.

Using a colourful analogy towards the end of his address, Onung likened African tourism to a hidden Manchester United trophy in a London home, arguing that the continent’s immense tourism potential remained largely underappreciated despite its rich cultural and natural heritage.

He maintained that Africa was ready not only to showcase its tourism attractions but also to invite the international community to participate in developing them.

“Africa is not just inviting the world to visit. Africa is inviting the world to partner, to participate, and to prosper,” he said.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Mr. Ola Awakan, called for greater unity and collaboration among African tourism stakeholders, stressing that the continent could achieve more through collective action.

Awakan advocated a strategic approach to developing a sustainable cultural tourism economy that transcends national boundaries.

“I believe in the philosophy of togetherness and unity, key ingredients to personal growth and national development. Our industry must adopt a strategic process to sustain the vision of African cultural tourism economy across our borders. I must commend the President of AITEC for this great initiative,” he said.

Similarly, the immediate past President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) and Deputy President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, stressed the need for practical action plans to transform Africa’s tourism potential into measurable economic gains.

Akporiaye cautioned against relying on elaborate declarations without concrete implementation, noting that the international community was watching how African countries and industry stakeholders would translate their cultural and tourism assets into viable investment opportunities.

Meanwhile, the President of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, reaffirmed her association’s commitment to positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination in the global tourism market.

She said NATOP would continue to leverage strategic platforms and international partnerships to attract more tourists to Nigeria.

Mustapha also commended AITEC World President, Mr. Dine Bouraima, for his commitment to establishing a continental platform for advancing cultural tourism.

At the event, NATOP unveiled its Nigerian Tourism Passport, a handbook showcasing major tourist destinations across the country.

The publication, designed in Nigeria’s national colours and bearing the country’s identity, attracted the attention of the NTDA Director-General, who commended the association for its initiative and efforts to promote domestic tourism.

Awakan, however, expressed the desire for similar initiatives to incorporate the input and endorsement of the national tourism authority as a way of strengthening institutional collaboration and ensuring greater coordination within the industry.

Earlier, AITEC World President, Mr. Dine Bouraima, welcomed participants and reiterated the need for Africa to take greater ownership of its tourism narrative and give its cultural assets stronger visibility in the global marketplace.

Bouraima said the Council’s previous unveiling in Abuja had demonstrated Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic relevance within Africa and the wider international community.

He called on African governments, development partners and international donor agencies to support AITEC World’s vision of expanding the global visibility of African cultural tourism while creating opportunities for international engagement, collaboration and investment.

AITEC World is a global council dedicated to connecting Africa with international markets through tourism, culture, entertainment and investment partnerships. It seeks to provide a platform for cooperation between African destinations and global stakeholders to promote the continent’s tourism resources and facilitate sustainable economic opportunities.

Gloria Odion, Maritme reporter 

Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola,  is leading a high-level Nigerian delegation to the 138th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in London, reaffirming the country’s commitment to strengthening global maritime governance and promoting safe, secure and sustainable international shipping.

The five -day meeting, which commenced on November 2 and ends on November 6, 2026, at the IMO headquarters in London, brings together representatives of member states to deliberate on critical issues affecting international shipping, maritime security, seafarers’ welfare and the future of the global maritime industry.

Nigeria’s participation as a Category C member of the 40 member IMO Council reflects its determination to play an active role in shaping international maritime policies while advancing the interests of developing maritime nations.

Oyetola’s participation comes at a critical time as the Council considers strategic measures to protect essential international shipping routes, improve the welfare of seafarers, strengthen institutional governance and advance environmental sustainability across the maritime sector.

Speaking on Nigeria’s participation, the minister reiterated the country’s commitment to working with other maritime nations and international partners to address emerging challenges confronting the global shipping industry.

He noted that effective international cooperation, stronger regulatory frameworks and collective action remained essential to ensuring a safer and more sustainable maritime environment.

“Nigeria recognises that the challenges confronting the global maritime industry require collective action, stronger international cooperation and effective regulatory frameworks.

“We are at the IMO Council to ensure that Nigeria’s interests are represented while contributing meaningfully to solutions that will strengthen maritime security, protect seafarers and promote sustainable shipping,” Oyetola said.

One of the major issues on the Council’s agenda is the protection of vital international shipping lanes, particularly against increasing security threats and attacks on commercial vessels operating in high risk maritime regions.

Under Agenda Item 11, which addresses the protection of vital shipping routes, Nigeria is expected to leverage its experience in combating piracy and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea to support stronger international collaboration and coordinated security measures.

Oyetola maintained that Nigeria’s progress in improving maritime security demonstrates the importance of sustained cooperation among coastal states, international organisations and relevant maritime stakeholders.

“Our experience in the Gulf of Guinea has shown that maritime insecurity can be addressed through political commitment, effective coordination and cooperation among regional and international partners.

Nigeria will continue to support initiatives that safeguard shipping routes and protect seafarers and maritime assets,” he stated.

The welfare and protection of seafarers also feature prominently in the Council’s deliberations, particularly following IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez’s condemnation of the use of seafarers as pawns in geopolitical disputes.

Nigeria is supporting measures to prevent the arbitrary detention and abandonment of seafarers while promoting their fair treatment, safe repatriation and mental well being.

The minister emphasised that seafarers remain central to the smooth operation of international trade and must be protected from the consequences of geopolitical tensions and conflicts.

“Seafarers are the lifeblood of international shipping.

“Their safety, dignity and welfare must never be compromised by geopolitical tensions.

“Nigeria supports stronger international measures to protect maritime workers and ensure that their rights are respected,” he said.

The Council is also reviewing financial allocations for the 2026–2027 biennium, alongside strategic priorities for the 2028–2029 period.

The deliberations provide Nigeria with an opportunity to advocate increased technical cooperation, institutional development and capacity building support for emerging maritime economies.

Oyetola stressed the need for stronger international partnerships that would enable developing maritime nations to translate global maritime policies into tangible economic and developmental benefits.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a competitive and sustainable Blue Economy, noting that access to technical expertise, institutional support and investment opportunities would be essential to strengthening the participation of developing countries in the global shipping industry.

“Nigeria is committed to building a competitive and sustainable Blue Economy.

We believe that developing maritime nations must have access to the technical expertise, institutional support and investment opportunities required to participate meaningfully in the evolving global shipping industry,” the minister added.

The Nigerian delegation accompanying Oyetola to the IMO Council meeting includes the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood; Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola; Director of Maritime Services, Mr Oyinloye Adeola Meshack; and Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO, Mr William Bwala.