The discourse around Nigeria’s maritime sector, its untapped potential, and the obstacles hindering its growth will persist in national discussions for the foreseeable future. Stakeholders and enthusiasts keen on exploring this potential face the challenge of fostering cooperation and synergy within and beyond the maritime sector. This collaboration is essential to realizing the common objective of harnessing the benefits inherent in the maritime industry for Nigeria’s economic growth.
The identified factors impeding the sector’s development fall into two broad categories: administrative issues and criminal activities. Administrative challenges include inadequate infrastructure, international cooperation gaps, bureaucratic hurdles, pollution, and corruption. The lack of essential facilities such as power supply, technology deployment, and efficient port and ship repair facilities contribute to the administrative issues. Manpower shortages, the absence of a national carrier, and foreign carrier dominance are also notable concerns.
Criminal activities encompass piracy, illegal oil bunkering, cybercrime, illegal fishing, smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking, militancy, kidnapping, sabotage, maritime terrorism, and pipeline vandalism.
Addressing Maritime Insecurity: In response to the insecurity in Nigeria’s waterways and the Gulf of Guinea, the Deep Blue Project by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has shown positive outcomes in reducing piracy and maritime crimes. However, global advancements in maritime crime necessitate enhanced efforts in policing waterways for sustained safety and security.
Regional and Multinational Cooperation: Cooperation involving West and Central African countries is crucial to resolving maritime insecurity issues. Collaborative initiatives beyond solo efforts like the Deep Blue Project are necessary for ensuring regional and continental security.
Manpower Development: Recognizing the vital role of seafarers in maritime trade, NIMASA prioritizes their development through the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme. Positive outcomes include the achievement of West Africa’s first female captain and co-pilot, Ms. Canus Ebinipre Robinson.
Port Development: Emphasizing the importance of port development, the resuscitation of existing ports in Sapele, Burutu, and Warri is suggested, along with the enhancement of logistics infrastructure and facilities.
Ship Ownership by Indigenous Owners: Achieving Nigeria’s full participation in maritime trade necessitates addressing the issue of ship ownership by indigenous ship owners through effective partnerships.
Conclusion: To make maritime Nigeria’s highest foreign exchange earner, collaborative efforts and prioritized attention to infrastructure development, manpower training, and ship ownership issues are imperative. With concerted efforts, Nigeria can position itself as a continental and international maritime powerhouse.
Dr. Jamoh, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMASA, shares these insights exclusively for The Guardian.