Blue Economy initiative gains momentum on collaboration for port efficiency, maritime development

In a significant move towards bolstering Nigeria’s Blue Economy, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, spearheaded a delegation from the Ministry to the International Customs Day Celebration in Lagos.

The distinguished delegation included Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Bashir Jamoh, and Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Bello Koko.

The Honourable Minister reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration for the enhancement of port efficiency and the overall development of the maritime sector. Dr Bashir Jamoh, in echoing the Minister’s stance, emphasised the paramount importance of interagency collaboration, particularly within the maritime domain.

Commending the Nigerian Customs Service for its steadfast efforts in countering smuggling activities, Dr Jamoh underscored the need for heightened collaboration and cooperation among relevant agencies. He acknowledged the pivotal role of the Customs Service in encouraging the utilisation of Nigerian Ports and contributing to the revenue for the Federal Government.

“The Nigerian Customs Service deserves to be commended for being steadfast in countering smuggling activities, all in a quest to encourage the use of Nigerian Ports and shore up accruable revenue to the Federal Government,” stated Dr Jamoh.

He further emphasised the critical role of interagency collaboration in propelling the maritime sector forward.

Highlighting the potential for increased achievements through collaboration, Dr Jamoh asserted, “More will be achieved if we increase the level of collaboration and cooperation.

“We can barely make progress without interagency collaboration, particularly in the maritime sector. Complementing each other’s activity will surely increase the Nigerian Port Efficiency and ultimately lead to the development of the Nigerian economy, particularly the maritime industry.”

The emphasis on collaboration and cooperation in the Blue Economy initiative signifies a concerted effort towards maximising the efficiency of Nigerian ports and fostering holistic growth in the maritime industry.