Maritime Agencies
CVFF Disbursement: NIMASA Raises the Bar, Undertakes Sensitization To The Delight of Stakeholders.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
What appears a practical demonstration of political will, courage and commitment by the Federal Government to address the long-standing concerns of indigenous ship owners and other industry stakeholders regarding the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) played out in Lagos, Monday, during a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization event to discuss the framework.
In his remarks, Dr Dayo Mobereola, the Director -General, Nigerian Martime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) who described the gathering as a significant step aimed at strengthening the nation’s maritime sector emphasized that the disbursement would be transformative for the industry, as it empowers indigenous shipowners to compete favourably, boost local content, create employment opportunities and strengthen ancillary maritime services.
Finance gurus, technical experts, ship owners, bankers and primary lending institutions who turned out in their numbers were unanimous in expressing delight that at last, light is beginning to show at the end of the tunnel on the disbursement after years of promise-and-fail on the part of the Federal Government.
“The CVFF was established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act of 2003 to provide financial support to indigenous shipowners for vessel acquisition and capacity development”, Mobereola recalled.
“After nearly two decades of regulatory challenges, NIMASA has secured the necessary approvals for disbursement under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and with the support of the Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, HE Mr.Gboyeya Oyetola”.
Assuring that NIMASA has mapped out far-reaching measures for effective utilization of the fund, he said the disbursement is designed to have a positive impact on the maritime industry with benefits extending to indigenous shipowners, seafarers, and the broader economy.
To ensure transparency and accountability, he explained,
NIMASA has established a dedicated unit in the Cabotage Secretariat to develop a clear eligibility criteria and framework, and to partner with the accredited 12 Primary Lending Institutions (PLIs) to facilitate access to the fund. He advised prospective applicants to follow the established procedures through partner financial institutions.
“The CVFF is not a grant programme but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s maritime future.”
The DG emphasized the Agency’s commitment to ensure proper monitoring of the fund utilization to make sure it achieves its primary objective which is to grow the maritime sector.
“The operationalisation of the CVFF represents not just the end of a long wait but the beginning of a new era for Nigerian shipping.”
Whereas the CVFF is a loan with single-digit interest rate, stakeholders, including the technical committee, explained that the required counterpart funding from the PLIs is structured to reflect their commercial interest.
The tenure of the loan is tentatively structured by NIMASA for an eight month moratorium tipped the discussion, with the
However, experts observed that the tentative eight-months moratorium period structured by NIMASA is unrealistic, saying that it ought to be tailored in such a manner as to reflect the intendment of the Fund which is largely a support instrument.
In his submission, Jibril Abba, NIMASA’s Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, said that the disbursement of the CVFF reflects the agency’s commitment to empowering local shipowners and operators as it would avail accessible financing options to reduce the reliance of indigenous ship owners on foreign vessels.
Stakeholders, he stated, should collaborate with NIMASA to
ensure the success of the CVFF disbursement and the sustainable growth of the maritime industry.
“NIMASA is working with Primary Lending Institutions (PLIs) to address issues such as insurance, fund security, flexible tenures, and the reduction of sundry fees to the barest minimum at subsidized rates. The agency is committed to empowering local shipowners and operators, stimulating domestic maritime commerce, and reducing reliance on foreign vessels.
“The CVFF disbursement is expected to have a positive impact on the nation’s economy, contributing to the growth of the Marine and Blue economy and catalyzing activities in other sectors. Stakeholders are optimistic about the potential of the CVFF to transform the maritime industry and promote economic development.
“By providing accessible financing options, NIMASA aims to boost indigenous ownership of marine assets and promote self-reliance in the maritime sector. The agency’s efforts are expected to lead to rapid economic growth and development, in line with the renewed Hope Agenda of the Administration.
“The success of the CVFF disbursement will depend on collaborative partnerships between NIMASA, shipowners, and other stakeholders. By working together, they can harness the full potential of the domestic shipping industry and ensure the sustainable growth of the maritime sector.
While expressing open optimism of the possibility of the disbursement taking place this time around, stakeholders drew attention to possible lapses government must address as the disbursement is being considered.
In this wise, Dr McGeorge Onyung, former President, Shipowners Association of Nigeria, Aminu Umar, (his Nigerian Chamber of Shipping counterpart) and other industry stakeholders commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and NIMASA for the untiring efforts in facilitating the disbursement of the funds.
Former Director-General of NIMASA, Temisan Omatseye, who had strong doubts previously regarding the realization of the CVFF, also commended NIMASA and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy for the latest development.
Maritime Agencies
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: Anti-Corruption Group Hosts Seminar To Tackle Envisaged Risks.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
To deepen public understanding of the National Single Window (NSW), the Federal Government’s flagship trade facilitation initiative, an anti-corruption group, Media Anti-Corruption Initiatives (MACI), in conjunction with Hynek Media, is set to hold a one-day enlightenment seminar in Lagos on the theme “National Single Window: Strategies to Avert Failure”.
To feature also are sub-themes which include Transparency in Single Window Project – A Key to Sustainability and
Inter-Agency Rival-Free Collaboration for NSW Success.
Billed for April 15, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa GRA, the seminar brings together policymakers, regulators, private sector leaders and civil society to discuss what experts describe as tamper-proof strategies for the effective implementation of the NSW.
As stated in a release by Funso Olojo and Pastor John Iwori, secretary and media/publicity chief of the NGO respectively, the seminar will be chaired by Aare Hakeem Olanrewaju, Chairman of the Customs Consultative Committee, with Hon. Kingsley Igwe, Registrar, Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), as Co-Chairman.
Other high-profile participants expected include Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Customs Comptroller -General as guest of honour, Tola Fakolade, Director, National Single Window (Special Guest of Honour) , Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, MD, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Dr. Dayo Mobereola, DG, NIMASA. Others are Dr. Pius Akutah, ES/CEO, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) , Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, Acting MD, NIWA and
Mrs. Adesuwa Ladoja, MD, Lagos Free Trade Zone .
The NSW is designed to streamline and centralize importation and exportation processes as well as transit documentation in order to reduce duplication while enhancing transparency.
Projections are that the initiative could cut transaction costs by up to 25% and boost government revenue by as much as 20 %.
Event Highlights will feature insights from Customs controllers, freight forwarders’ associations, indigenous terminal operators, and regulators, alongside perspectives on the Lagos Free Zone Green Channel initiative.
Organizers say the seminar will provide a rare opportunity to align government agencies, private operators, and civil society around a shared vision for a seamless trade ecosystem.
However, experts warn that Nigeria’s history of reform failures underscore the need for robust implementation safeguards.
Maritime Agencies
ICTN: FG Gives Shippers’ Council Nod for a Roll-Out, Agencies Sign Performance Bonds.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
A presidential nod to commence the implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) has been granted the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).
Disclosing this in Lagos, Thursday, Executive Secretary of the NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah confirmed that already work is in progress to consolidate the procurement processes needed.
Dr Akutah was speaking during the Ministerial Management Retreat and the 2026 first quarter stakeholders’ engagement.
“We have already obtained approval from the President to proceed with the procurement process, and that process is ongoing,” Akutah said.
He explained that while the Nigerian Ports Authority is spearheading the deployment of the Port Community System (PCS), the NSC has been mandated to drive the ICTN, a complementary initiative aimed at enhancing cargo tracking and trade transparency.
Akutah acknowledged the troubled history of the ICTN in Nigeria, describing its past implementation attempts as “checkered,” but expressed confidence that the current administration is determined to avoid previous pitfalls.
According to him, the minister is taking deliberate steps to ensure that the project is executed seamlessly and does not suffer the repeated suspensions that hampered earlier efforts.
“The Minister is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that the implementation under his leadership will not be suspended,” he added.
He further revealed that the Council is intensifying efforts to resolve outstanding operational and stakeholder concerns ahead of the full rollout, expected before the end of 2026.
When fully operational, he assured, the ICTN is expected to significantly improve cargo visibility while strengthening regulations.
Speaking at the event which featured the signing of the traditional performance bonds between the Minister and agencies under him, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola warned heads of agencies that performance would no longer be evaluated by intentions but by verifiable results.
Dr Oyetola emphasised that all Departments and Agencies under the Ministry must remain firmly focused on delivering tangible results. These agencies include the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron. Others are the National Inland Waterways Authority and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria.
Performance bonds signed at the retreat, the Minister explained, were binding commitments that would be rigorously monitored.
“These are not ceremonial documents. They are binding commitments. Accountability will not be optional,” he declared.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, says the Electronic Ports Access Call-up System, otherwise known as ETO, is a critical intervention system designed to address persistent disruptions in port logistics that have previously hampered operations while negatively affecting port users and port area residents.
Developed in partnership with Truck Transit Parks Limited (TTP), the ETO system established a structured framework for truck movement scheduling and access to the ports, significantly reducing congestion and improving traffic flow within Apapa.
Dr Dantsoho made this clarificatio in Lagos, Tuesday, during an interactive session with the press. He explained that the NPA has intensified efforts to advance the Port Community System (PCS) even as it embarks on a comprehensive review of the ETO itself.
NPA MD who was represented by Mr Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the Agency’s General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, said the noticeable improvement in travel time and accessibility into Apapa is a testament to the system’s impact. Routes previously battling with traffic gridlock are now more navigable.
With the initial contract for the ETO now expired, he disclosed that the system is undergoing a detailed assessment to identify operational gaps, address stakeholder concerns, and strengthen the efficiency. Such reviews, he added, are routine and necessary to ensure optimal performance and sustainability.
He, however, assured that the ETO remains operational under interim arrangements to avoid any disruption to current port activities, underscoring its continued relevance in daily port operations.
The ongoing review, being carried out in collaboration with TTP is expected to produce a reformed operational model aligned with the NPA’s broader digitalisation agenda. At the centre of this agenda is the Port Community System (PCS), an integrated digital platform aimed at linking all stakeholders within the port value chain.
Adegboyega Oyetola, Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
The PCS, NPA stated, will harmonise multiple standalone systems currently operated by different agencies and service providers into a single interface, enabling seamless data exchange, improved coordination and enhanced operational efficiency.
Dantsoho noted that the transition to a Port Community System reflects global best practices, where interoperability among stakeholders drives transparency and efficiency. While acknowledging minor integration challenges, he expressed confidence that ongoing collaboration among stakeholders will come to the rescue.
On ports concession renewal, the NPA boss acknowledged that several agreements have expired but explained that the Federal Government is prioritising a thorough review process before granting fresh renewals. He said the objective is to address legal issues and establish more balanced and effective agreements.
He noted concerns raised by some operators over the uncertainty but maintained that interim extensions granted by the government signal a commitment to maintaining stability while detailed reforms are concluded.
The Authority also pointed to the complexities of deploying digital platforms such as ETO and PCS in emerging port corridors like Lekki, where operational control is shared among multiple stakeholders. He noted that, unlike Apapa, implementation in Lekki requires broader alignment among private investors and government institutions in the business corridor.
Dantsoho assured that port operations will continue seamlessly throughout the review period, expressing optimism that the outcome will consolidate the gains of the ETO while ushering in a more integrated and efficient system under the PCS framework.
He added that the next phase of digital transformation will position Nigeria’s ports for greater efficiency, improved stakeholder collaboration, and enhanced global competitiveness.
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: Anti-Corruption Group Hosts Seminar To Tackle Envisaged Risks.
ICTN: FG Gives Shippers’ Council Nod for a Roll-Out, Agencies Sign Performance Bonds.
NPA Deepens Digitalization,Targets Port Community System As ETO undergoes Review.
Nigeria Canvasses Regional Co-operation, Investment Drive at Liberia Fisheries Summit.
PORTS MODERNIZATION, NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW TO TACKLE PORTS CHALLENGES, Says NPA MD.
Oyetola Welcomes EU Delegation, Urges Stronger Role Against Illegal Fishing, Maritime Crimes in the GoG.
Maritime Journalists’ Group, MARAN, Set To Honour Her Past Leaders.
Tincan Customs Posts Over N120.4bn in February, 2026, A Huge Leap Above the February 2025 Records.
TRADE FACILITATION: FG Unveils National Single Window To Encourage Coordinated and Technology-Driven Trade System.
NIMASA Collaborates With KAIPTC To Empower West African Women For Digital Participation In Maritime Sector.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, 2026: NIMASA Commits To Women Inclusion in Maritime Sector.
Apapa Customs Hits Smugglers Hard After CGC’s Visit, Intercepts ₦3.398 Billion Codeine Syrup In 5 Days.
MAN, Oron, Pushes Actualization of Her Mandate Beyond Nigeria, Seeks Strategic Partnership with Liberia Maritime Training Institute
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DOUBLE CAPTAIN!
NPA’s 2025 Operational Performance Report Validates FG’s Economic Diversification Initiatives.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoApapa Customs Hits Smugglers Hard After CGC’s Visit, Intercepts ₦3.398 Billion Codeine Syrup In 5 Days.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoINTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, 2026: NIMASA Commits To Women Inclusion in Maritime Sector.
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