FG To Implement Maritime Seminar Resolutions To Strengthen Blue Economy
The Federal Government has pledged to implement key recommendations from the 18th International Maritime Seminar for Judges as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime justice system, boost the blue economy and attract greater investment into the sector.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made the commitment on Wednesday while declaring open the three-day seminar in Abuja.
The seminar was organised by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and the Nigerian Maritime Law Association.
Akume said resolutions from the seminar would not remain mere recommendations but would be translated into policy, legislation and institutional reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s maritime sector.
According to him, recommendations requiring legislative amendments would be forwarded to the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Justice, while those involving the ratification of international conventions would receive executive attention.
“The work done over the next three days should not remain in this hall. It must find expression in policy, legislation, institutional reform and ultimately in the daily experience of every Nigerian who does business through our ports or seeks justice in our courts,” he said.
The SGF noted that an efficient maritime justice system is critical to promoting trade, attracting investment and reducing the cost of doing business.
He warned that delays in resolving maritime disputes, poorly executed ship arrests and unresolved cargo liability cases weaken investor confidence, disrupt trade and ultimately increase the cost of imported goods for Nigerians.
Akume described a transparent and effective maritime justice system as a key pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the blue economy, stressing that investors are more likely to commit resources where dispute resolution mechanisms are predictable and reliable.
He also called for stronger collaboration among the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Customs Service, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Federal High Court.
According to him, improved information sharing, regulatory alignment and institutional cooperation among the agencies will enhance efficiency and strengthen the maritime sector.
The SGF commended the Nigerian Shippers’ Council for sustaining the International Maritime Seminar for Judges since 1995, describing it as one of Africa’s leading platforms for capacity building in maritime law.
He also welcomed judicial officers from Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Kenya and Liberia, expressing confidence that the seminar would deepen regional cooperation, promote harmonisation of maritime laws and support trade across Africa.
The three-day event has brought together judges, maritime law experts and other stakeholders to discuss emerging issues in maritime law, commercial dispute resolution and judicial best practices.
