Nigeria’s maritime sector is being reshaped by federal government reforms and increased private sector participation, according to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, he said Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy if ongoing reforms are sustained.

Dantsoho credited the transformation to policies introduced by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, alongside broader federal government reforms.

Why it matters

Nigeria accounts for more than 60% of West Africa’s GDP but handles only about 25% of the region’s cargo traffic, highlighting a gap between economic strength and maritime performance.

Dantsoho warned that this imbalance limits Nigeria’s ability to fully benefit from global trade and logistics opportunities.

“It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

He added that unlocking the blue economy could boost exports, reduce freight costs and increase national revenue.

Push for economic shift

Dantsoho called for a major shift in Nigeria’s economic priorities towards marine resources.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.

He said Nigeria’s strategic location and large market position it to become a regional maritime hub, comparable to global centres like Singapore and Morocco.

Reforms driving change

According to Dantsoho, the government is implementing key reforms to modernise the port system and improve efficiency.

“We are implementing key strategic initiatives such as port modernisation, trade single window, port community system, deep seaport development and full digitalisation to reposition our ports for global competitiveness,” he stated.

He said these reforms aim to improve connectivity, attract larger vessels and expand non-oil exports.

“The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, attract bigger vessels, reduce freight costs, and expand our export base, which will significantly boost revenue generation,” he noted.

Private sector role

The NPA chief stressed that private investment is essential to bridging infrastructure gaps.

“We are open to private sector participation through project financing. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,” he said.

He added that competitiveness in the maritime sector depends on efficient operations, pricing and strong inland connections.

Minister highlights Nigeria’s advantage

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said Nigeria’s natural resources give it a strong edge.

“With over 823 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and a prime location along the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to harness the immense potential of the marine and blue economy,” he said.

He noted that the sector already accounts for more than 90% of Nigeria’s international trade by volume.

Oyetola added that reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence.

What’s next

Dantsoho said sustained reforms and investment could position Nigeria as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa.

“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he said.

Industry perspective (Context)

Industry analysts say Nigeria’s push aligns with a global shift towards blue economy development, where coastal nations maximise ocean resources for economic growth.

However, they warn that infrastructure gaps, port congestion and regulatory bottlenecks must be addressed for reforms to succeed.

JMG Limited and Jamara Home have hosted a staff sporting festival and showcased advanced cooling solutions at a major industry exhibition in Lagos, highlighting their dual focus on workplace culture and technological innovation.

The events, held around the Easter period, brought together employees, unions, and industry stakeholders, reflecting a broader push to strengthen both internal collaboration and external industry leadership.

Staff Sporting Festival Promotes Team Spirit

The companies, alongside branches of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria (SEWUN), organised their first Staff Sporting Festival to encourage teamwork and employee wellbeing.

Activities included football, chess, and board games, with staff divided into four teams competing in a relaxed and energetic atmosphere.

Participants described the event as a chance to reconnect outside daily work routines and build stronger relationships across departments.

“This is more than a competition, it is about connection, shared energy, and the spirit everyone brought to the day,” said Chief Commercial Officer, Rabi Jammal.

“These are the moments that strengthen not just our teams, but our entire organisation.”

Chief Human Resources Officer Gloria Ibeziako said the turnout reflected the importance of people-focused initiatives.

“At the heart of every strong organization are strong relationships,” she said.

“Events like this reinforce teamwork, boost morale, and remind us that our people are our greatest assets.”

Why It Matters

Workplace culture is increasingly seen as critical to productivity and retention, particularly in competitive industries.

Analysts say employee engagement initiatives such as sports events can improve collaboration, reduce burnout, and enhance organisational performance.

For companies like JMG and Jamara Home, the festival signals a strategic investment in human capital alongside business growth.

JMG Showcases Cooling Innovation at HVACR Exhibition

Separately, JMG’s Clima Division took part in the HVACR Exhibition 2026 in Lagos, presenting energy-efficient cooling solutions in partnership with Trane Technologies.

The three-day event, held at the Landmark Centre in Victoria Island, brought together contractors, consultants, and developers within the Big 5 Construct Nigeria platform.

Visitors to the JMG Clima stand explored advanced systems designed for performance, resilience, and sustainability in commercial and industrial settings.

Industry Conversations Focus on Energy Efficiency

Discussions at the exhibition centred on Nigeria’s growing demand for efficient climate control systems, driven by urban expansion and rising energy costs.

Stakeholders highlighted the need for smarter infrastructure solutions capable of supporting long-term development.

“Their continued trust drives us to keep innovating, to keep improving, and to deliver solutions that set new benchmarks,” said Hussam Aziz, Sales Manager, JMG Clima.

Industry Reactions

Experts say the push for energy-efficient cooling systems is timely as Nigeria faces increasing pressure on its power supply and infrastructure.

Industry observers note that partnerships with global firms such as Trane Technologies could accelerate technology transfer and improve standards in the HVAC sector.

What’s Next

JMG Limited says it plans to continue investing in both employee engagement and technical innovation.

The company aims to expand its role in Nigeria’s energy and infrastructure sectors, with a focus on sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

Fidelity Bank Plc has empowered 100 women in Ogun State with vocational tools, as part of its nationwide “Give Her Power” initiative aimed at boosting economic independence.

The programme, held in Abeokuta, saw the distribution of 50 sewing machines and 50 grinding machines to women engaged in microbusinesses.

It forms part of a broader rollout launched in March to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day, in partnership with several organisations.

The event took place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena and drew market leaders, community stakeholders, and government officials.

Why it matters

Women-led small businesses play a critical role in Nigeria’s informal economy, but many face barriers such as limited access to funding, tools, and training.

Programmes like this aim to bridge that gap by providing not just financial services, but also practical resources that can immediately improve productivity and income.

‘Empowerment must be practical’ – Bank

Speaking at the event, Fidelity Bank’s Regional Head for Southwest 1, Folaranmi Jemirin, said the initiative focuses on tangible impact.

“At Fidelity Bank, our approach to empowerment is simple; it must be practical, inclusive, and sustainable. When you empower a woman economically, the benefits extend to her family, her business, and the wider community.”

He added that the Ogun outreach builds on momentum from the initiative’s launch earlier in March.

Jemirin explained that the programme operates under the bank’s women-focused platform, HerFidelity, which offers financial literacy, mentorship, business support, and vocational training.

“This is more than a donation, it’s our vote of confidence in your ability to earn, grow, and create value within your communities.”

Government backs initiative

Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, described the programme as a shift from symbolic gestures to real economic support.

“This initiative goes beyond celebrating International Women’s Day. It delivers real opportunities for transformation. When you empower a woman, you empower a family and, ultimately, society.”

She said the effort complements the state government’s agenda to strengthen women’s economic participation under Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Wider rollout across Nigeria

Fidelity Bank says it has expanded the initiative nationwide, including:

Distribution of 1,000 vocational tools

Launch of the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0

Financial literacy sessions for girls

Mentorship and skills training programmes

The bank says the goal is to create long-term pathways for women to build sustainable businesses.

Industry and public perspective

Experts say such targeted interventions can have a multiplier effect on local economies.

Small-scale entrepreneurs especially women often reinvest earnings into their families and communities, improving education, healthcare, and overall welfare.

However, analysts note that sustained impact will depend on continued access to markets, financing, and follow-up support.

What’s next

Beneficiaries have been urged to make productive use of the equipment to ensure long-term benefits.

Observers say similar initiatives could be scaled further if backed by consistent monitoring and partnerships with local governments and development organisations.

About Fidelity Bank

Fidelity Bank Plc serves over 10 million customers through digital channels, 255 business offices in Nigeria, and its UK subsidiary.

The bank has received several awards, including recognition for digital transformation, SME banking, and mobile banking innovation.