The Federal Government has declared its intention to increase the port rating of Nigeria in the international maritime space, this was expressed through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Mr Adegboyega Oyetola.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Mission to Seafarers (MTS) Centre in Lagos earlier this week, Mr Oyetola said, “With global competition increasing, it is necessary for nations to take vital steps to make their ports more proactive. He noted that improving Nigeria’s balance of trade, which is essential for the strengthening of the naira and job creation, is at the top of President Tinubu’s political agenda.”
Mr. Oyetola added that, given the importance of the maritime sector in achieving this goal, the Ministry, under his leadership, is committed to equipping seafarers and any maritime worker with the necessary tools to overcome any challenges they may face in carrying out their job.
He added, “This is one of our efforts to increase the advantages our marine resources offer.” The rebuilding of these facilities will boost Nigeria’s ratings and rankings in the global maritime community.
“I was highly elated when I received the report of the commissioning of this Seafarers’ Center by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). My joy is rooted in the realisation that this purpose-built facility, designed to provide vital social, psychological, and emotional support to the crewmen and women who drive global trade in and out of Nigeria, signposts the seriousness of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration in enhancing the maritime sector to add greater value to the national economy.”
NPA Managing Director and CEO, Mr Mohammed Bello Koko, said that with more than 90% of global trade, which accounts for 50% of the world’s economic output which plays an important economic role in promoting development and reducing poverty by sea, all members of the maritime community including the world community benefit directly or indirectly from the services of seafarers.