Nigeria has taken a major step towards repositioning its maritime and blue economy sector after the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi Ports Group to explore strategic collaboration in ports development, maritime logistics and digital solutions.
The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the recently concluded Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, underscoring a renewed momentum in Nigeria–United Arab Emirates (UAE) economic and investment relations.
According to a statement by the Deputy Director/Head of Public Relations of the Ministry, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR, the agreement is aimed at unlocking technical expertise, investment opportunities and innovation-driven growth across Nigeria’s port and maritime ecosystem.
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, led the Nigerian delegation to the signing ceremony, while the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, H.E. Mohamed Hassan, led the Group’s management team. Also present was the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola.
Following the engagement, the Nigerian delegation briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the scope, objectives and strategic importance of the MoU, highlighting its alignment with the administration’s agenda to grow the blue economy, attract foreign direct investment and modernise port infrastructure.
The agreement, which had been under consideration for more than two decades, is part of broader trade and investment engagements between Nigeria and the UAE. Its eventual signing signals a renewed commitment by both countries to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in maritime trade facilitation, port efficiency, digital transformation and sustainable blue economy development.
Stakeholders believe the MoU could serve as a catalyst for capacity building, technology transfer and private sector participation, positioning Nigeria as a more competitive maritime hub in West and Central Africa.