FG Targets Jobs, Investment Through Maritime Sector Reforms
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector as a key driver of employment, investment and economic diversification.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made this known during the 18th International Maritime Seminar for Judges, organised by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in Abuja.
Akume said a thriving maritime industry depends on a legal system that gives investors confidence that commercial disputes will be resolved fairly, promptly and transparently.
According to him, no serious investor will commit resources to maritime ventures without assurance that contractual disagreements will be handled efficiently by the courts.
He described Nigeria’s maritime domain as more than just a trade corridor, stressing that it holds enormous potential to create jobs, attract investments and support the country’s drive for economic diversification.
Also speaking at the seminar, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the event’s theme, “Advancing Maritime Justice, Strengthening Global Trade,” highlights the vital role of a strong judicial system in building a competitive maritime economy.
Oyetola noted that maritime commerce can only flourish where the rule of law is respected, contracts are enforced and disputes are resolved fairly and without unnecessary delays. He added that while the government is pursuing infrastructure development, policy reforms and institutional strengthening, these efforts must be supported by a judiciary that enjoys both local and international confidence.
“The judiciary occupies a uniquely strategic position within the marine and blue economy ecosystem because every commercial transaction, investment decision, financing arrangement, shipping contract, insurance policy and maritime venture ultimately depends on the assurance that legal rights will be protected and disputes resolved fairly, efficiently and in accordance with international law,” he said.
The minister further observed that the global maritime legal landscape is evolving rapidly, urging Nigeria to keep pace by strengthening its legal and judicial framework.
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also underscored the importance of judicial collaboration in advancing maritime justice. She said the administration of maritime law is strengthened when courts exchange ideas, learn from one another and share experiences in addressing common legal challenges.
According to the CJN, seminars such as the International Maritime Seminar for Judges provide judicial officers with valuable opportunities to gain comparative insights while remaining responsive to the unique legal traditions and realities of their respective jurisdictions.
