The Nigerian government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, is set to relaunch the Nigerian National Shipping Line decades after its collapse.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, revealed plans to revive the shipping line through a Public-Private Partnership.
Speaking in Lagos, Oyetola emphasized that the creation of the new National Shipping Line would help expand the nation’s domestic shipping fleet and support the growth of the maritime sector. He explained that the new shipping line would be private-sector driven, acknowledging the failure of the former government-owned NNSL, which was liquidated in 1995.
The Minister also noted that Nigerian territorial waters, along with those in the Gulf of Guinea, have remained safe over the past year, with no incidents of piracy or maritime terrorism recorded. This security success was attributed to the procurement of seven 13-meter armored patrol boats for flag, port, and coastal state operators.
Oyetola highlighted that this improved security has garnered international praise, enhancing Nigeria’s chances of securing a “Category C” seat in the International Maritime Organization. Furthermore, efforts are underway to upgrade seaport infrastructure, with the Nigerian Ports Authority focused on rehabilitating the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports to maintain efficient facilities.
The Minister also announced the finalization of the National Policy on Blue Economy, which will outline the goals, objectives, and strategies for the maritime sector over the next decade, aiming to generate revenue and create jobs.
On infrastructure development, Oyetola shared that the government is progressing with plans to develop deep seaports in states such as Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Ondo, Rivers, and Bayelsa. Other initiatives include the development of inland dry ports in locations like Jos, Bauchi, Ijebu Ode, and Ogun. The ministry is also focused on modernizing port processes by digitalizing and automating operations to ensure seamless access to services.
The Minister discussed ongoing efforts to improve maritime safety by marking and removing wrecks in the nation’s territorial waters and installing Global Maritime Distress and Safety System equipment in all rescue sub-centers across the country.
Finally, Oyetola revealed plans to disburse the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund to facilitate indigenous shipping development, shipbuilding, and maintenance. The government aims to make funding more accessible for indigenous shipping companies to acquire vessels.
“This achievement was reinforced by the procurement of seven 13m armoured patrol boats for flag, port and coastal state operators”, he said.
“We have finalised and set for the launch of the National Policy on Blue Economy. This document will set out the development goals, strategies and initiatives for the sector for the next 10 years to generate revenue and create jobs,” he added.
