The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has disclosed that for the past three straight years, Nigeria has not recorded any piracy incidents on its territorial waters.
At the second quarter citizens and stakeholders engagement meeting organised by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy on Thursday, the Minister attributed this milestone to the success of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative and renewed focus on coordinated enforcement.
“Through the Deep Blue Project, Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for three consecutive years.
“This is a remarkable achievement that has earned us international commendation and contributed significantly to regional maritime stability,” he said.
Mr Oyetola revealed that Nigeria’s leadership role in maritime security has been recognised by the African Union, which recently endorsed Nigeria’s offer to host the AU Combined Maritime Task Force in Lagos.
He added that the policy endorsed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) is a key part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, offering a comprehensive roadmap to unlock value across multiple sectors, including maritime security, port infrastructure, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, ocean governance, and renewable energy.
“This gathering is not ceremonial. It is a working session designed to set priorities, define institutional responsibilities, and ensure coordinated, accountable implementation,” he said.
The Minister outlined major infrastructure investments, including the Federal Government’s approval of contracts for the reconstruction of the Apapa and Tin-Can Ports, as well as ongoing procurement processes for upgrades in the Eastern Ports.
These are to be complemented by digital systems like the Port Community System, e-Call-Up platform, and a unified clearance process to ease port congestion and improve trade efficiency.
He announced that the government is pursuing the revival of a National Carrier through public-private partnerships to strengthen Nigeria’s shipping capacity, adding that preparatory work for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund by NIMASA is also underway, with strong emphasis on transparency and regulatory compliance.
Highlighting achievements in inland waterway transportation, the Minister stated that over 42,000 life jackets have been distributed nationwide, along with the deployment of ferries and patrol boats, ntoing that these interventions, backed by the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation of 2023, are already reducing boat mishaps and restoring public confidence in water travel.
He also detailed efforts to reposition the fisheries and aquaculture sector as a driver of food security and rural development. This includes the revival of fishing terminals, automation of licensing systems, and new incentives to encourage private-sector investment.