Overview
Introduction Nigeria’s maritime sector is entering a pivotal phase of transformation, marked by renewed government focus, strategic investments, , and an evolving regulatory framework. As a critical gateway to West Africa and a cornerstone of the national economy, the sector is attracting increased attention in critical areas such as vessel financing, seafarer welfare and environmental sustainability. In this edition of the newsletter, we explore the major developments shaping the maritime and regulatory landscape as of mid-2025. From global efforts to eliminate harassment at sea and to protect seafarers, to the revival of strategic infrastructure projects like the Olokola Port, and the growing momentum around shipping decarbonization across Africa, the maritime industry is undergoing dynamic change .
At the national level, recent policy approvals, funding initiatives, and legislative reforms highlight a decisive shift towards indigenous empowerment and alignment with international best practices. These efforts altogether reflect Nigeria’s broader ambition to become a leading maritime hub on the continent. Regulatory UpdatesHouse of Representatives Passes Bill to Amend Coastal and Inland (Shipping) ActThe House of Representatives on March 13, 2025, passed a bill that aims to restrict the use of foreign vessels in domestic coastal and inland commercial activities, paving the way for Nigerians to operate without competition from foreign vessels. The bill titled “An Act to Amend the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, No.
5, 2003 to Restrict the Use of Foreign Vessels in Domestic Coastal and Inland Commercial Activities, to Promote the Development of Indigenous Tonnage and Establish a Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund; and for Related Matters”, seeks to limit the extent of access to Nigerian waters by foreign vessels, boosting participation of indigenes in Nigeria’s domestic shipping industry activities.
Review of Proposals to Amend the Maritime Labour ConventionAt the three-day Tripartite Technical session held in February 2025, which brought together key stakeholders from government, employers, unions, and international maritime partners to review Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to improving maritime labor standards and the welfare of seafarers, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) disclosed that it is reviewing 16 proposals for amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006. The MLC, 2006, provides a comprehensive international framework that ensures decent working standards for seafarers while promoting fair competition within the maritime industry.
However, as global maritime dynamics evolve, driven by automation and economic shifts, the Agency emphasised the importance of adapting this important legislation to address emerging challenges and ensuring that seafarers’ welfare is guaranteed, further strengthening Nigeria’s commitment to decent work conditions for all seafarers.
