Afolabi Calls For Port Infrastructure Overhaul At Maritime Conference, As Minister Oyetola Lists Key Sector Reforms
Afolabi Calls For Port Infrastructure Overhaul At Maritime Conference, As Minister Oyetola Lists Key Sector Reforms
By Frank Odinukaeze
The Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, has made a strong case for urgent infrastructural renewal across Nigeria’s seaports, describing it as the foundation for unlocking the nation’s maritime potential.
Speaking at the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime (TAAM) Conference, held at the University of Lagos over the weekend, Afolabi noted that Nigeria’s blue economy remained vastly underutilised. He stressed that investing in modern, sustainable, and resilient port infrastructure is key to driving efficiency, attracting investment, and creating jobs.
“Nigeria’s blue economy is a sleeping giant,” Afolabi said. “We have untapped potential along our vast coastline that, if harnessed responsibly, can create new jobs, strengthen our ports, attract investments, and safeguard our environment for future generations.”
He emphasised that infrastructure sits at the heart of this transformation, underscoring the need for decisive action to improve port competitiveness and efficiency.
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, outlined the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms to reposition the maritime sector as a key driver of national economic growth.
He pointed to the recently launched National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy as a framework guiding opportunities in areas such as ports development, marine biotechnology, fisheries, ocean governance, renewable energy, and coastal tourism.
Oyetola also highlighted major projects under the ministry, including the Western Ports Rehabilitation Programme, the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, and plans to revive Nigeria’s national shipping line through a public-private partnership.
“The future of our maritime sector must be built on sustainability,” the Minister noted, emphasizing energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and waste minimisation in all infrastructure upgrade plans.
In a notable development, Oyetola announced that Nigeria had recorded zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for the third consecutive year — a major feat that has stabilised the Gulf of Guinea and drawn praise from the international community.
The Minister further revealed Nigeria’s intention to secure a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, a move he said would position the country to influence global maritime governance.
He also advocated for deeper collaboration with academia in areas such as marine robotics, innovation, and technology research to enhance sector capacity.
Now in its seventh year, the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference is a joint initiative of the SIFAX Group and the Maritime Forum of the University of Lagos. It has evolved into one of the most respected forums for maritime policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement in Nigeria.
