Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, asserts that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu has successfully shifted the direction of Nigeria’s maritime industry through significant reforms. Speaking at the 18th International Maritime Seminar for Judges in Abuja, Oyetola emphasized the necessity of maintaining these advancements to ensure long-term stability.
The event, hosted by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council in partnership with the National Judicial Institute, serves as a hub for refining maritime law and judicial practices. Oyetola noted that the administration has built a robust foundation for economic growth, aiming to attract private investment and diversify the nation’s revenue streams. He stressed that a reliable judicial system is vital for safeguarding these investments and positioning Nigeria as a top maritime power in Africa.
During his address, the minister urged judicial officers to stay informed on emerging trends such as artificial intelligence in shipping, autonomous vessels, and complex environmental regulations. He highlighted that as technology advances, the courts will face new challenges involving liability, blockchain-based documentation, and international shipping protocols. Ensuring that judges are well-equipped to handle these modern legal disputes is critical for maintaining investor trust.
Oyetola pointed to tangible achievements since the ministry’s creation in 2023, including the establishment of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and four years of zero piracy. He also highlighted a major funding agreement for port modernization, the activation of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, and significant revenue growth of over N1.8 trillion in 2025. Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, echoed these sentiments, noting that efficient and timely resolution of maritime disputes is essential to preventing trade disruptions and keeping business costs manageable.
