Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure across Nigeria’s seaports, describing it as the cornerstone for unlocking the country’s immense maritime potential.
Speaking at the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime (TAAM) Conference held over the weekend at the University of Lagos, Afolabi, represented by Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, stressed the urgency of revamping Nigeria’s port infrastructure to drive efficiency, attract investments, and fully harness opportunities within the blue economy.
“Nigeria’s blue economy is a sleeping giant,” he said. “We have untapped potential along our vast coastline that, if harnessed responsibly, can create new jobs, strengthen our ports, attract investments, and safeguard our environment for future generations. Infrastructure is at the heart of this transformation.”
Afolabi emphasised that modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure is critical to driving competitiveness and efficiency within Nigeria’s maritime corridors.
In his keynote address, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by the Director of Marine Services, Dr. Mercy Ilorin Olanike, highlighted ongoing Federal Government efforts to position the maritime sector as a major pillar of national development.
“The National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy provides a coordinated framework for unlocking opportunities in ports, fisheries, ocean governance, marine biotechnology, renewable energy, and coastal tourism,” he said.
Oyetola listed key initiatives, including the Western Ports Rehabilitation Programme, reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports, and plans to revive the National Carrier through a public-private partnership.
He also stressed the need for sustainability in all infrastructure modernisation efforts, with a focus on energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and waste minimisation.
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