Nigeria Moves to Unlock Blue Economy Potential, Strengthen Multimodal Cargo Transport – Senator Eshilokun
Nigeria Moves to Unlock Blue Economy Potential, Strengthen Multimodal Cargo Transport – Senator Eshilokun
Lucky Akra
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport,Senator Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni has said that Nigeria is intensifying efforts to harness its vast maritime resources to boost export trade and improve multimodal cargo transportation, as the government steps up plans to develop a fully integrated blue economy.
Eshilokun who was duly represented said this at the Annual Conference of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria,AMJON on Thursday 13th of November, 2025.
According to Senator Eshilokun, “With the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy,the country is positioned to transform its maritime sector provided that infrastructure development, strategic policy reforms, and sustainable practices are pursued with renewed urgency.
Infrastructure Push to Drive Trade Efficiency.
Senator Eshilokun emphasize that modernizing the nation’s ports, expanding inland and coastal waterways, and strengthening road and rail links to maritime hubs are essential to improving cargo movement. Proposed upgrades include new deep asea ports, dredging of major waterways, and seamless multimodal connections that link seaports to dry ports and hinterland markets.
The adoption of digital tools such as the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) is also expected to enhance cargo visibility, reduce delays, and bolster security across the supply chain.
The Senator who was honoured with Achievement Award for Legislative Excellence and Selflessness Call for Clear Policy Direction and Stronger Institutions
Sector.
He insist that Nigeria needs a comprehensive national blue economy policy aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Strengthening the institutional capacity of the newly created ministry, improving inter-agency coordination, and attracting private-sector investment through public-private partnerships are viewed as critical next steps.
A more efficient maritime legal and judicial framework is also considered key to facilitating trade and resolving disputes.
Sustainable Sectoral Growth at the Core
Beyond shipping and logistics, the blue economy strategy includes expanding fisheries and aquaculture through modern technology, research, and improved local participation particularly among youth to enhance food security.
Marine and coastal tourism, renewable ocean energy, biotechnology, and even deep-sea mining are among the emerging sectors seen as new frontiers for economic diversification.
Stakeholders stress that all developments must be guided by sustainability principles to protect marine biodiversity and ensure long-term viability.
As Nigeria looks to reposition itself as a major maritime and export hub, the success of these efforts will depend on coordinated planning, investment, and environmental stewardship across all blue economy activities.
