Minister of Maritime and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s maritime, logistics and transportation sectors through innovation and reforms.
Oyetola made this known while declaring open the 2025 annual conference of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) on the theme ‘Enhancing Logistics and Transport for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria’ in Lagos.
Represented by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Oyetola said the government is committed to transforming maritime and logistics into engines of inclusive economic growth.
He described the CILT Nigeria conference as “a premier platform for policy dialogue, professional exchange and forward-thinking” in logistics and transportation.
Oyetola said the theme was timely, reflecting global recognition of the Blue Economy as a transformative frontier for growth and job creation.
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He explained that Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean and inland water resources for prosperity, better livelihoods and employment opportunities.
According to him, Nigeria's 853 kilometers long coastline and vast waterways hold immense potential for national prosperity if harnessed efficiently.
He said Nigeria’s maritime geography offers strategic advantages in Africa, but this potential can only be realized through efficient logistics and transportation systems.
“The ability to seamlessly move goods, people and services by sea, land and air is the lifeblood of commerce and industrial development,” Oyetola said.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has recognized the Blue Economy as the next frontier for diversification beyond oil.
“The creation of the Federal Ministry of Oceans and Blue Economy reflects a deliberate resolve to harness the sector’s potential for innovation and sustainability,” he said.
Oyetola said that since the establishment of the ministry, several strategic initiatives have been launched to modernize ports, enhance maritime security and develop inland waterways.
He said these initiatives are aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and improving Nigeria's competitiveness in global maritime trade.
Among the reforms, Oyetola announced the approval of a $1 billion port modernization project in Lagos to expand cargo capacity and align with global best practices.
“Similar projects are also being planned for ports outside Lagos to ensure balanced development at all sea gateways,” he said.
On maritime security, Oyetola highlighted the success of the Deep Blue Project, which led to zero piracy incidents in three years.
He said the achievement has restored investor confidence and reduced the cost of doing business in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
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The Minister also unveiled a 10-year National Blue Economy Strategy to integrate marine, fisheries, logistics and coastal development policies.
He said the framework will ensure that economic growth is aligned with environmental management and social equity.
While commending CILT Nigeria, Oyetola praised its leadership in promoting professionalism and ethical standards in logistics and transportation.
He urged members to adopt smart, green transportation technologies and adopt data-driven planning for efficiency and sustainability.
“Our goal is sustainable and inclusive growth that empowers coastal communities, creates opportunities and preserves the environment for future generations,” Oyetola said.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro, President of CILT Nigeria, welcomed the delegates and expressed pride in the Institute’s evolution into one of Africa’s most vibrant professional bodies.
Usoro said the CILT conference has become an influential platform for setting policy direction for logistics, transportation and blue economy.
Tracing its history, he said CILT Nigeria, established in 1958, now operates in 13 states and is fully aligned with CILT international standards.
He emphasized that the institute's certifications are recognized globally and its capacity building efforts have transformed logistics and transportation education across the country.
He commended the 2025 conference committee led by Professor Kayode Oyesiku for preparing a rich program on sustainability, green shipping and supply chain innovation.
Usoro also outlined CILT's partnerships with key institutions including the Maritime Academy, BPP, Nigerian Army College of Logistics and the African Center for Supply Chain.
He said the collaboration has deepened professional capacity and improved policy implementation in both the public and private sectors.
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Highlighting the achievements, Usoro said CILT Nigeria’s revenue increased by over 240 per cent between 2022 and 2025 through prudent management and digital transformation.
He expressed satisfaction at the increased visibility of Nigerian professionals at CILT International, describing the country as one of the most impressive delegations globally.
“Our members now play important roles on international committees and speak at major global sessions,” he said.
As the conference continued on Thursday, delegates praised Oyetola and Usoro for their visionary leadership and focus on sustainability, digitalization and logistics reform.
The 2025 CILT conference was anticipated to set new benchmarks to propel Nigeria's transportation and blue economy sectors towards a globally competitive future.
