From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Akutah Ukeyima, has projected that Nigeria’s maritime sector has the potential to generate over $30 billion annually once fully developed.
He credited this ambitious outlook to the far-reaching reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, particularly the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, which has repositioned the industry for accelerated growth.
Speaking at an award ceremony organised by Top 10 Magazine in Abuja over the weekend, Ukeyima emphasised the NSC’s strategic move toward transforming into a Port Economic Regulatory Agency, a long-overdue step following the 2007 sector reforms.
“We are so happy that the National Assembly has graciously passed the law in both chambers, and we are eagerly awaiting Mr. President’s assent,” he stated.
He explained that once the law is signed, the NSC will transition into a fully-fledged Port Economic Regulatory Agency, officially assuming its mandate as a regulatory body backed by law.
“What this means is that we will have the legal authority to drive efficiency in the sector, which has faced years of inefficiency. Once the maritime industry becomes more efficient, it will foster fair trade policies, enhance competitiveness, and unlock its full economic potential,” Ukeyima noted.
He further highlighted that increased efficiency would enable Nigeria to benchmark its maritime industry against leading economies in West Africa and beyond.
“The new policies introduced by the government are poised to bring about the much-needed transformation in the industry, ensuring sustainable growth and development,” he added.
Ukeyima urged Nigerians to rally behind these reforms, stressing that a well-regulated and efficient maritime sector would significantly boost the country’s economy and enhance global trade competitiveness.
In his remarks, Tony Iju, Publisher of Top 10 Magazine, commended the awardees for their outstanding contributions to their respective industries, urging them to continue their efforts in driving Nigeria’s economic sustainability.
With the maritime sector undergoing critical structural changes, stakeholders remain optimistic that these policy-driven reforms will unlock unprecedented economic opportunities and firmly position Nigeria as a key player in the global blue economy.