Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, claimed a phenomenal 90% rise in revenue earned by Nigeria’s blue economy sector. He expressed confidence that with current reforms, the sector is well positioned to outperform the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) in revenue creation.
Speaking at the “My Harassment-Free Ship” 2025 Day of the Seafarers event in Port Harcourt, Oyetola emphasized the importance of port automation, modernization, and digital transformation as essential drivers of this progress.
“In a short period of time, we raised income by at least 90%. “We are confident that with continued modernization and technological adoption, the blue economy will eventually outperform the NNPC in terms of revenue generation,” the minister stated.
NPA projects ₦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 by 2025, aligning with the minister’s comments. The NPA’s estimate is based on increased operational efficiency, full utilization of the Dangote Refinery’s marine infrastructure, and the deployment of cutting-edge technology across Nigerian ports.
Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the NPA, 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 2025 spending.
Maritime Labour E-Platform Launched.
To improve transparency and labor governance, the federal government has established the Maritime Labour E-Platform, a digital portal designed to streamline maritime worker administration. The technology enables real-time data access, increases regulatory compliance, and centralises labour management.
Read Also: Suswam to APC: Brace Up, Opposition Coalition Is Growing Ahead of 2027
“This e-platform is a bold step toward digital governance, improved service delivery, and industry-wide innovation,” Oyetola said, urging all stakeholders to use the system.
Promoting seafarers’ welfare and safety
Addressing the topic of the 2025 commemoration, Oyetola underlined the need of eliminating harassment and bullying in the maritime industry. He underlined the ministry’s commitment to aligning seafarer education with international norms and fully implementing the STCW Convention, including anti-harassment training.
He also applauded NIMASA’s latest Collective Bargaining Agreement, which establishes standards for fair pay, excellent working conditions, and conflict resolution for seafarers.
NIMASA urges alignment with the MLC 2006 amendments.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, has urged shipowners and crewing agencies to update their operations manuals in accordance with the newly approved changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.
The modifications address essential concerns such as the identification of seafarers as key workers, enhanced safety, shore leave, and repatriation rights. The new standards are planned to be implemented globally by December 2027.
“These reforms represent a global agreement on protecting seafarers and ensuring fair treatment. “Our operators must align quickly to ensure compliance,” Mobereola stated.
With substantial progress in modernization, regulation, and human capital development, Nigeria’s blue economy is developing as a major source of national revenue. The government’s commitment to establishing a harassment-free, digitally enabled maritime industry provides a solid foundation for long-term growth.
