Maritime experts are urging the adoption of smart sea ports across Nigeria’s major ports to drive growth in the blue economy sector, positioning the country for global competitiveness in international trade. Speaking at the 2024 Maritime Lecture Series, leaders in the industry emphasized the need for technological innovation to overcome the infrastructure and security challenges currently hindering Nigeria’s ports.
President of the Alumni of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO), Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa, delivered a powerful lecture titled Smart Ports: Transforming Nigeria Ports with Technology – Embracing Innovation for Efficiency and Growth. Maiguwa decried the lack of infrastructure in Nigeria’s ports and highlighted the need for smart ports equipped with modern digital facilities to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
He outlined several key challenges, including poor infrastructure, lack of skill development, and the growing need for cybersecurity to protect digital port systems from cyber threats. As a solution, Maiguwa advocated for the adoption of green technologies to boost the sustainability and efficiency of Nigeria’s ports.
“Smart sea ports will be a catalyst for Nigeria’s blue economy, enabling us to become more competitive in global trade,” Maiguwa said.
Maritime Academy Pushes for Skilled Manpower and Institutional Development
In another session, Captain Konica Duniya stressed the importance of addressing human and institutional capacity development in the maritime sector. Speaking on the topic, “Addressing Human and Institutional Capacity Development in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector Through Stakeholders Partnership,” Duniya warned of a looming shortage of seafarers, with global figures projected to be 96,000 short by 2026.
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Duniya urged Nigerian maritime stakeholders to seize the opportunity presented by the Russia-Ukraine war and the COVID-19 pandemic, which have left gaps in global seafaring employment. “Nigeria must act swiftly to engage more seafarers, capitalizing on the challenges faced by other nations,” she said.
She identified pressing challenges within the Nigerian seafaring sector, including fraudulent issuance of discharge booklets, sea time fraud, certificate forgery, and lack of a comprehensive database for Nigerian seafarers. Duniya called for government intervention through strategic partnerships with countries like the UK and other European nations to safeguard the blue economy.
The Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Commodore Emmanuel Duja Effedua (retd), emphasized the need to expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure. Represented by Dr. Kelvin Okonna, Director of Specialized Seafarers, Effedua outlined plans to modernize port facilities, accommodate larger vessels, and increase cargo-handling capacities.
Effedua stressed that expanding maritime infrastructure will boost international trade and make Nigeria more competitive globally. “Over 80% of Nigeria’s international trade is conducted via the maritime sector. To remain competitive, we must address challenges like inadequate infrastructure, skilled manpower shortages, and a weak regulatory framework,” Effedua said.
Nigeria’s strategic location as a major oil exporter and its potential to serve as a hub for regional and international trade into Africa presents a unique opportunity to revamp the country’s maritime sector. With smart port technology, investment in skilled manpower, and strategic international partnerships, experts believe Nigeria is poised for exponential growth in its blue economy.
