Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, announced a spectacular 90% rise in earnings from Nigeria’s blue economy industry. He expressed confidence that, with continuing changes, the sector will soon outperform the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) in terms of income creation.
Speaking at the 2025 Day of the Seafarer celebration in Port Harcourt, titled “My Harassment-Free Ship,” Oyetola emphasized the importance of port automation, modernization, and digital transformation as key drivers of progress.
“We have grown our revenue by at least 90% in a relatively short period of time. “We are confident that with continued modernization and technology adoption, the blue economy will eventually outperform NNPC in terms of revenue generation,” the minister stated.
NPA expects to generate ₦1.27 trillion in revenue by 2025
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) anticipates a 40% rise in revenue from ₦894.86 billion in 2024 to over ₦1.27 trillion in 2025, consistent with the minister’s comments. The NPA’s prediction is based on increased operational efficiency, full use of the Dangote Refinery’s marine infrastructure, and the deployment of cutting-edge technology across Nigerian ports.
Managing Director of the NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, revealed the data during a budget defense session with the House Committee on Ports and Harbours, noting that capital projects will account for more than 70% of spending in 2025.
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Launch of the Maritime Labour E-Platform
To improve transparency and labor governance, the federal government has launched the Maritime Labour E-Platform, a digital portal aimed at improving maritime personnel management. The technology facilitates real-time data access, encourages regulatory compliance, and centralizes workforce management.
“This e-platform is a bold step toward digital governance, improved service delivery, and industry-wide innovation,” Oyetola stated, asking all stakeholders to support the system.
Promoting the welfare and safety of seafarers.
In response to the topic of the 2025 celebration, Oyetola underlined the significance of eliminating harassment and bullying in the marine sector. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to aligning seafarer education with international standards and fully complying with the STCW Convention, which includes anti-harassment training.
He also applauded NIMASA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement, which established goals for fair compensation, excellent working conditions, and conflict resolution for seafarers.
NIMASA Encourages Compliance with MLC 2006 Amendments
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, has urged on shipowners and crewing agencies to update their operations manuals to reflect the recently agreed revisions to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.
The revisions address crucial problems such as seafarers’ identification as key workers, increased safety, shore leave, and repatriation rights. The new rules are set to go into force internationally by December 2027.
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“These modifications reflect a global consensus that seafarers should be protected and treated fairly. Mobereola emphasized that our operators must work together swiftly to ensure compliance.
Nigeria’s blue economy is growing as a major source of national revenue, thanks to significant advances in technology, regulation, and human capital development. The government’s commitment to developing a harassment-free, digitally sophisticated maritime industry lays the groundwork for long-term success.
