Experts have advocated comprehensive national maritime policies and regulations to provide the roadmap for sustainable practices and development of the blue economy potential.

According to various experts who spoke at the sixth edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime (TAAM) Conference held at the University of Lagos, Nigeria needs to prioritise issues about stringent regulations that support environmental protection, economic efficiency and social responsibility.

The conference was themed: ‘A Blueprint for Sustainable Shipping: The Significance of the Nigerian Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’.
The Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, said the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has to expand its scope to provide policies and regulations that would guide investors’ foray into areas like coastal tourism and renewable energies.

He said there are diverse opportunities in the industry beyond the traditional shipping and port operations, adding that the sector needs to be strategic and decisive about sustainability as well as exploiting the range of business opportunities that the blue economy presents.

Afolabi said this, however, must be done in a sustainable manner that would protect the ocean ecosystem and provide benefits for the coming generations.

Renowned maritime lawyer and keynote speaker, Dr Emeka Akabogu, harped on the importance of achieving sustainable shipping as a country, through ethical conduct, improved port operations and adequate legislation within the industry.

According to him, it is imperative to achieve this system to build a maritime industry that is functional, providing resources that transcend generations.

He said sustainable shipping is the backbone of a resilient and thriving global economy, especially as it carries the bulk of world trade as well as encompasses practices that ensure the long-term health of the oceans.

“The significance of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is not only timely but also crucial as we navigate the evolving dynamics of the global, regional, and sub-regional maritime industry. This ministry is pivotal for innovative policy development and sustainable practices that will drive Nigeria’s maritime sector forward,” he stressed.

On his part, the former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Temisan Omatseye, noted that the industry was due for a national maritime policy that would provide the roadmap for its development.