By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria to collaborate with the Federal Government to achieve a paperless, technology-driven port environment. This, he believes, will help combat corruption and reduce vessel turnaround time, thereby enhancing efficiency in port operations.
Oyetola made this call at the 2025 National Conference and Annual General Meeting of CILT Nigeria, emphasizing that achieving efficient port operations requires a strong partnership between the government and logistics professionals.
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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy who was represented by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho explained that the Federal Government is committed to port modernization and digitalization, with a $1 billion modernization project approved for Lagos ports. This landmark initiative aims to upgrade infrastructure, improve cargo handling, and expand capacity to meet global standards.
According to Oyetola, procurement processes have commenced for similar modernization projects at ports outside Lagos to ensure balanced development across Nigeria’s maritime gateways. These efforts reflect the administration’s determination to improve logistics performance and competitiveness in the marine and transport sector.
The Minister commended CILT for its leadership in promoting professionalism, knowledge, and ethical standards in the logistics and transport sector.
He described the Institute’s expertise as indispensable to the success of Nigeria’s Blue Economy, noting that their contribution defines the efficiency and competitiveness of the entire economic ecosystem.
Oyetola challenged CILT and its members to continue championing the adoption of smart and green transport technologies, promoting capacity building for young professionals and operators, and advocating for data-driven planning and decision-making in logistics management.
The Minister emphasized that Nigeria’s Blue Economy ambitions cannot be realized without an efficient and integrated logistics and transport system.
He noted that the ability to move goods, people, and services seamlessly – by sea, land, and air – is the lifeblood of commerce and the foundation of industrial growth.
The Minister stressed that the government’s goal is sustainable and inclusive growth that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and social equity.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognizes the Blue Economy as the next frontier for economic diversification beyond oil.
” Consequently, the creation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy underscores the collective commitment to reposition this vital sector as a key driver of national growth, innovation, and sustainability. Oyetola assured that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy remains fully committed to partnering with CILT and all stakeholders to advance shared objectives” Oyetola concluded.
In a related development, the newly elected CILT President Nigeria, Boboye Oyeyemi, will be inaugurated on November 27th at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Victoria Island, Lagos. Mrs. Juliana Saka from the Nigerian Shippers Council has also emerged as the Deputy National President of the Institute.
Vice President:
North, Mr Sani Mathew.
East. Dr. Monday Ezechukwu*
*West *Elisha Ebah.
*Mode Representatives*:
Logistics & Supply Chain, Dr. Ajao Oluseyi.
Maritime, Salim Bello.
Pipeline,Dr. William Odemwingie*
Road, Abdulganiyu Tijan.
Railway, Dauda Olabayo*
Aviation, Rosemary Audu.
– *Diversity & Inclusion Leader,Queen Ajayi*
The event featured prominent speakers, including the Global President of CILT, Chief Teete OWUSU-NORTEY, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the former Managing Director of NPA, Chief Adebayo Sarumi.
The CILT Nigeria 2025 National Conference and Annual General Meeting brought together stakeholders in the logistics and transport sector to discuss the way forward for the industry.
Newspoint247 reports that as the Institute continues to play a leading role in promoting professionalism and expertise in the logistics and transport sector, its collaboration with the government will be crucial in achieving a thriving Blue Economy that benefits Nigeria’s coastal and riverine communities, women, and youth
