Blue economy to grow trade by 30% in 2030 — NPA
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has projected a 30% increase in trade volume by 2030, the creation of over one million jobs by 2028, and a doubling of the maritime sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 1.5% to 3% by 2035.
Dr. Dantsoho made these projections while presenting a paper titled “Nigeria’s Blue Economy and Ports Infrastructural Development: The NPA Perspective” at a National Conference organised by the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, on Thursday.
He emphasised the significant investment opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy, highlighting the development of inland waterways, the expansion of port infrastructure, and maritime technology solutions.
The conference, themed “Nigeria’s Maritime/Blue Economy Industry under the Renewed Hope Agenda: What is New?”, focused on the potential of the sector.
Dr. Dantsoho described the blue economy as a vital driver of sustainable development, noting that the government has created an enabling environment for investments through policy reforms, incentives, and partnerships with international organisations.
“The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation, while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. With Nigeria’s 853-kilometre coastline and extensive inland waterways, the nation is uniquely positioned to harness these resources for economic diversification,” he said.
Dr. Dantsoho stressed the critical role of ports in facilitating the blue economy. He stated that the NPA is at the forefront of advancing the sector by ensuring efficient port operations, adopting eco-friendly technologies, generating significant national revenue, and enhancing maritime security.
The NPA’s strategic focus, he said, aligns with the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which aims to drive growth and sustainability in the maritime sector.
Key sectors of the blue economy identified by the NPA boss include maritime transportation, fisheries and aquaculture, energy resources, tourism and recreation, and seabed mining. He highlighted the immense potential of these sectors in driving economic diversification and creating opportunities for Nigerians.
Dr. Dantsoho revealed that, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the NPA has launched several transformative initiatives, including significant investments in port infrastructural development at Apapa, Tin Can Island, Onne, and Warri ports. He also highlighted the operationalisation of the Lekki Deep Seaport in 2024 and the ongoing construction of the Badagry Deep Seaport, designed to accommodate Post-Panamax vessels.
These advancements, he noted, are supported by strategic public-private partnerships (PPPs) aimed at improving infrastructure and streamlining operations. The sector’s embrace of technology, through initiatives such as the Revenue Invoice Management System (RIMS) and the ETO Call-Up System, addresses long-standing issues like congestion, while environmental sustainability measures, including waste management systems, ensure compliance with global standards.
Furthermore, he pointed to robust capacity-building programmes that are equipping port personnel with the necessary skills to uphold international best practices, thus strengthening Nigeria’s position as a key player in regional and global trade.
“We are committed to ensuring that our ports not only support economic growth but also adhere to sustainability practices that preserve our maritime ecosystem,” Dr. Dantsoho stated.
Acknowledging challenges such as infrastructure deficits, inadequate funding, and security concerns, Dr. Dantsoho outlined strategies to address these issues. He stressed the importance of accelerated infrastructural investments, strengthened maritime security through global partnerships, and policy reforms in overcoming these barriers.
Dr. Dantsoho concluded with a call for collaboration and innovation within the maritime sector, reiterating the NPA’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s blue economy.
“Together, we can harness the full potential of our maritime sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, fostering economic growth, job creation, and national development,” he added.
