Nigeria’s maritime sector is set to receive a $2 billion investment boost through a strategic partnership with China, targeting indigenous vessel ownership and regional hub development.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has unveiled the Nigeria-China Maritime Strategy designed to transform the country’s shipping industry. The comprehensive initiative promises to deliver substantial economic returns while creating thousands of employment opportunities.
According to government projections, the partnership will generate $2 billion in vessel investments, $20 billion in freight contracts for Nigerian operators, $200 million for maritime training infrastructure, and $50 million for modern training vessels. The program expects to create over 2,000 new maritime jobs annually while training 25,000 globally certified Nigerian seafarers.
The strategic collaboration involves the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership and the Global Investment Advisory Community, working through Nigerian operator Anabel Capital. This partnership will connect Nigerian-owned shipping companies with Chinese shipyards, charter firms, and investment banks.
“This strategy represents a game changer that aligns with our Ministry’s priorities for sectoral reform and economic growth,” said Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during the formal presentation at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The initiative focuses on catalyzing local participation in the maritime industry by providing capital support for Nigerian shipping companies and establishing direct links with Chinese maritime infrastructure providers. The strategy also includes substantial investments in vessel acquisition and the development of comprehensive maritime training institutions.
Economic analysts highlight that this partnership could position Nigeria as a dominant maritime force in West Africa, potentially controlling significant portions of regional shipping traffic. The program aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing private-sector-driven economic transformation.
Key stakeholders present at the announcement included Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oloruntola, NIWA Managing Director Munirudeen Oyebamiji, NCSP Director-General Joseph Tegbe, and Anabel Capital Managing Director Dr. Nicholas Okoye.
The Nigeria-China Maritime Strategy represents a broader diplomatic initiative aimed at translating strategic partnerships into tangible economic outcomes for Nigerian businesses and workers.
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