Maritime industry leaders, policymakers, and traditional rulers gathered at the Agip Recital Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, for the 3rd Ehingbeti Blue Economy Hub, themed “The Renaissance of Ehingbeti in Community Engagement and Inclusivity.”
Speaking at the event, the Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Engr. (Mrs.) Sarat Braimah, emphasized the untapped potential of Nigeria’s inland waterways and their vital role in national economic development.
Braimah lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing the move as visionary and a “game changer” for Nigeria’s maritime and economic diversification agenda.
According to her, the creation of the ministry signals a renewed government commitment to developing the maritime sector, which remains one of the country’s most promising frontiers for growth, trade expansion, and job creation.
She, however, stressed the need for increased investment in water transport infrastructure, noting that developing inland waterways is both capital-intensive and crucial for decongesting roads, promoting intermodal transport, and unlocking coastal trade opportunities.
“Nigeria’s waterways hold immense potential to transform regional trade, tourism, and logistics. To achieve this, both public and private stakeholders must work collaboratively to build sustainable infrastructure and attract long-term investment,” Braimah said.
The NIWA manager further commended the Lagos State Government for its progressive investments in ferry services and dredging projects, which have significantly improved connectivity and mobility across coastal communities.
Braimah urged maritime stakeholders, investors, and policymakers to embrace the blue economy as a catalyst for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and community empowerment.
With over 10,000 kilometers of navigable waterways, experts say Nigeria stands on the brink of a maritime renaissance, one that could redefine transportation, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen the nation’s economic resilience.