Hon. Busayo Oluwole Oke commended Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola for his impactful leadership in Nigeria’s maritime sector. In his 2026 New Year message, Oke praised Oyetola’s initiatives that enhanced maritime infrastructure and expanded the blue economy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development for Nigeria’s economic diversification and competitiveness.
As Nigeria prepares for a new tax regime in 2026, maritime stakeholders are calling for special considerations for seafarers. They argue that tailored protections are essential to prevent unfair burdens on a workforce that faces unique challenges. Advocates emphasize the need for tax exemptions and clear residency guidelines for seafarers.
Nigeria’s recent election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council represents a pivotal moment for its maritime sector. Securing a seat in Category C for 2026–2027, the nation reaffirms its position as Africa’s largest blue economy. Labor unions and media celebrate this achievement, crediting strategic leadership and inter-ministerial collaboration.
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has detained 20 Filipino seafarers following the discovery of 20 kilograms of cocaine concealed in their vessel’s cargo. The crew, aboard the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Nord Bosporus, is reportedly being treated well as investigations continue. Communication with the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers is ongoing.
A significant diplomatic contest is underway at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters, where Kenya is vying to retain its council seat against Nigeria and South Africa. This election, part of the 34th Regular Session, highlights tensions in Category C, aimed at ensuring diverse geographic representation in maritime affairs.
Nigerian anti-drug authorities have detained 20 Filipino seafarers after recovering 20 kilograms of high-grade cocaine from a Panama-registered vessel at Lagos’s main port. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) stated the cocaine was hidden beneath coal cargo. Investigations are ongoing as the crew is questioned about the ship’s route.
Nigeria has proudly launched its first locally owned floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel, the FPSO Emem, by Oriental Energy Resources. This milestone signifies local producers’ growing capabilities in managing offshore developments, traditionally dominated by international companies. The FPSO aims to enhance production in the Okwok field, targeting 30,000 barrels per day.
The Nigerian maritime sector is in crisis, with its indigenous fleet dwindling drastically, leading to foreign carriers handling 95% of cargo. Stakeholders at the PortNews Summit called for the urgent release of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, which has remained dormant for 18 years, costing the economy billions annually.
The National Assembly is committed to fostering Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, as emphasized by Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni during the 2025 World Maritime Day in Lagos. He praised President Tinubu’s administration for advancing maritime reforms and highlighted the importance of legislation to enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship in the sector.
The Nigerian Federal Government is actively pursuing support for its bid to join the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, highlighting the strategic importance of its ports in Central and West Africa. Minister Adegboyega Oyetola emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety and international collaboration during the UN General Assembly.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s maritime sector. At a Nigerian Chamber of Shipping meeting, he outlined plans to replicate the Lekki Deep Seaport model nationwide, focusing on public-private partnerships to enhance trade, industrial growth, and job creation.
To enhance intra-African cooperation, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has partnered with Ghana’s insurance regulatory authority. This collaboration aims to improve marine insurance practices in West Africa through knowledge sharing and regulatory harmonization, fostering local marine insurance coverage in Ghana and strengthening ties for a unified market attractive to global reinsurers.
Nigeria has officially endorsed amendments to eight codes of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, enhancing protections for seafarers. These changes recognize seafarers as essential workers and improve their working conditions. This endorsement, discussed at the ILO Special Tripartite Committee Meeting in Geneva, reflects Nigeria’s commitment to international maritime standards.
A product tanker was boarded by pirates off the Nigerian coast, with the crew escaping unharmed. This incident highlights the ongoing threat of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and West Africa, despite being the first reported in the area in years. Security services are urging caution as pirate activity continues to rise.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, revealed plans for a port modernization program with the Nigerian Ports Authority focusing on Apapa and Tincan Island ports. This initiative aims to enhance port infrastructure, reduce turnaround time, and address challenges in the maritime sector. Oyetola emphasized the importance of a holistic approach.
