Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for a unified regulatory framework across Africa’s maritime sector, arguing that fragmented rules are hindering the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking at the London International Shipping Week, the Minister emphasized that removing non-tariff barriers is critical to unlocking Africa’s full trade potential.
Delivering a keynote address at the Africa Maritime and Shipping Assembly, Oyetola, represented by NIMASA Director General Dr. Dayo Mobereola, highlighted a significant paradox: while AfCFTA aims to eliminate tariffs, disparate port procedures and customs regulations act as invisible trade barriers.
He urged African nations to accelerate the implementation of continental instruments like the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter to create a more predictable and investor-friendly environment.
The Minister positioned Nigeria as a leader in this effort, showcasing the country’s significant progress in key areas.
He pointed to the success of the Deep Blue Project, which has led to three consecutive years without piracy attacks in Nigerian waters, making the country a safe destination for maritime investments.
He also highlighted the state-of-the-art Lekki Deep Sea Port, a public-private partnership poised to become a vital transshipment hub for landlocked countries like Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
In addition to security and infrastructure, Oyetola stressed Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable growth, advocating for green shipping practices and climate-resilient coastal management.
He also used the platform to seek support for Nigeria’s bid for a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, framing the campaign as a way to give the entire African continent a stronger voice in global maritime governance.
Oyetola concluded by urging investors and African stakeholders to embrace collaboration to navigate the “turbulent” regulatory seas ahead, aiming to build a maritime sector that is secure, sustainable, and seamlessly integrated.
