Maritime Agencies
WMD 2025: Innovative Financing Is Key To Drive Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy, Says Oyetola. S
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Without a strong financial provision and sustainable investment, Nigeria’s dream to make the best out of the vast marine resources in her environment may turn out a pipe dream. Therefore, finance remains the decisive factor in transforming the country’s new vision for its marine and blue economy.
H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy made the declaration in Lagos, Thursday, at the 3rd Quarter Citizens’ and Stakeholders’ Engagement of the Ministry and her agencies.
According to the Minister, the event’s theme, “From Policy to Impact: Finance is Key,” is both timely and urgent as the Federal Executive Council’s approval of Nigeria’s first-ever National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy in May 2025 had created a clear roadmap for growth even though the next critical step lies in mobilising the capital needed to achieve results.
He said the new policy envisions economic growth across a wide range of sectors including shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, marine tourism, coastal infrastructure, renewable energy and ocean research.
In the opinion of the Minister, “vision without financing remains no more than a dream”. He pointed out that government alone cannot shoulder the immense responsibility of modernising Nigeria’s ports, sustaining maritime security, expanding aquaculture, or building climate-resilient infrastructure. It would take innovative partnerships, international financing mechanisms and strong private sector engagement to translate policy into measurable outcomes.
Oyetola drew attention to the Ministry’s proven record of discipline and results, recalling that in the first quarter of 2025, the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU) awarded the Ministry a performance score of 96 per cent, while in 2024 the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council named it the best performing ministry in the country. These achievements, he said, demonstrate the government’s capacity to deliver, but scaling up requires unlocking far greater resources.
The Minister cited recent examples where financing has already yielded impact. Nigeria, he noted, has sustained a piracy-free record for more than three years in the Gulf of Guinea, a feat made possible through investments in the Deep Blue Project. Rehabilitation and modernisation of Lagos ports are underway, designed to attract larger vessels, cut down turnaround time and create thousands of jobs, with similar initiatives planned across the country.
He said consultations with fisheries associations earlier in the year are driving the scaling of aquaculture, the development of fish harbours, and the deployment of satellite monitoring systems. These interventions, he said, have already contributed to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda, with non-oil exports rising by almost 20 per cent in the first half of the year.
He argued that the marine and blue economy must not be seen as a government-only endeavour but rather as a shared prosperity project in which finance is the lever that will draw in long-term private capital, align practices with international standards, and ensure that every stakeholder effort complements the national 10-year policy. With policy clarity, proven results and demonstrated capacity, what Nigeria now requires is scale, and for that finance is indispensable.
“Distinguished stakeholders and partners, let us be clear: the Marine and Blue Economy is not solely a government agenda — it is a shared prosperity project. Finance is the lever that will attract long-term private capital; align our practices with global standards in PPPs, bonds, and blended finance, and ensure every stakeholder initiative complements the 10-Year National Policy for maximum impact,” the Minister said.
Minister Oyetola stressed that Nigeria’s path from policy to impact requires aligning ambition with resources, strategy with execution, and vision with impact.
“With collective commitment and innovative financing”, he said, “Nigeria is well placed to secure leadership in Africa’s marine and blue economy and to generate the prosperity, jobs and environmental resilience that its citizens deserve.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, also addressed the gathering through a technical presentation titled “Imperatives of Public Investment for Marine and Blue Economy Development.” He described public investment as essential seed capital that de-risks private participation, strengthens regulatory institutions and aligns national priorities with long-term growth objectives.
Oloruntola warned that the current budgetary allocation to the marine sector is grossly inadequate when compared to the capital-intensive responsibilities of port modernisation, maritime security, fisheries, tourism and renewable energy. He therefore called for a dedicated Blue Economy Fund, stronger public–private partnerships, and the adoption of blue bonds, green financing instruments and development support from multilateral partners.
In his analysis, the Permanent Secretary outlined opportunities for Nigeria to harness, including the modernisation of seaports and inland waterways, support for indigenous shipping lines, expansion of fisheries and aquaculture, development of cruise terminals and eco-tourism infrastructure, as well as investment in marine biotechnology and renewable energy.
He argued that with the right financing structure, Nigeria could unlock access to over 1.5 trillion dollars in global blue economy opportunities projected by 2030, create millions of jobs, and secure sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.
Making a presentation at the event, Mr Jude Chiemeka, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited, who delivered a paper titled “Marine and Blue Economy Development: Alternative Sustainable Financing Option”, highlighted the role of the capital market in raising long-term financing for blue economy projects, underscoring the importance of sustainability-linked loans, blended finance and impact investments in building resilience across the sector.
The event drew broad participation from maritime associations, financial institutions, civil society and other interest groups, reflecting a shared recognition that the marine and blue economy is central to Nigeria’s diversification agenda.
Maritime Agencies
OIL FACILITIES PROTECTION: Tompolo’s Tantita Acquires High-Tech Drones From US Firm.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Tantita Security Services Ltd (TSSL), the company in charge of security surveillance over oil and gas installations in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, is in collaboration with Textron Systems Corporation, a United States–based defence and aerospace company, to supply her three advanced Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
TSSNL owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo) disclosed the business deal in her website publication of December 29, 2025. The drones will be delivered in a fully ITAR-Free configuration.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 is designed to operate without runways, utilising hybrid quadrotor technology that enables vertical takeoff and landing, as well as fixed-wing flight.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS, Textron Systems says, is a mature, industry-proven autonomous platform known for its high reliability and operational flexibility. Its dual-mode capability allows it to operate seamlessly in complex and high-risk environments, making it well-suited for security operations within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Giving further insight into the contract, Senior Vice President, Air, Land and Sea Systems at Textron Systems, David Phillips, said the deployment would significantly enhance Tantita’s operational capability.
”The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a proven solution that will enable Tantita Security Services to expand its capabilities to protect the oil and gas infrastructure essential to Nigerian security and prosperity,” he stated.
The Aerosonde platform has accumulated over 700,000 flight hours across some of the world’s most challenging operating environments, underscoring its reliability and performance.
Tantita Security Services is expected to deploy the systems to strengthen surveillance and protection of critical oil and gas assets across Nigeria.
The contract also includes options for operator training and the supply of additional aircraft to support future capability expansion. Textron Systems noted that the agreement builds on a previous Foreign Military Sale (FMS) contract to Nigeria, further highlighting its ongoing commitment to supporting Nigerian security operations.
Textron Systems is a global leader in uncrewed air, land and sea systems, with the Aerosonde family of UAS currently supporting international customers and operations aboard more than 10 U.S. Navy ships. The company is a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), a diversified multinational with interests spanning aviation, defence, industrial manufacturing and finance.
With multiple payload configurations and comprehensive training and support services, the Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS offers a versatile and efficient solution for security operations in demanding environments, reinforcing Tantita Security Services’ role in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical energy infrastructure.
Maritime Agencies
NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: MARAN Appreciates Stakeholders, Requests Greater Support and Collaboration in 2026.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate a brand new year, the pioneer maritime journalists’ group, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), has implored the entire business community, especially maritime industry stakeholders, to join the association afresh in advancing the cause of the industry to ensure more impact and relevance in the national economy in the new year and beyond.
In a New Year message, MARAN Chairman, Mr. Tunde Ayodele described 2026 as a “year of greater impact,” stressing the need for improved service delivery and more robust maritime reportage to support national development.
According to him, the collective efforts of stakeholders in the outgoing year contributed positively to the growth of the maritime sector, urging all parties to sustain the spirit of unity and collaboration in the new year.
“United, we can make Nigeria proud by contributing our quota to national development, each from our own little corner,” the MARAN chairman said.
Ayodele reaffirmed MARAN’s readiness to collaborate with organisations and institutions across the maritime value chain, noting that such partnerships are crucial to making Nigeria’s maritime space one that is admired and celebrated.
He expressed appreciation for the cooperation and support extended to the association throughout 2025 and called for renewed commitment in the year ahead.
“Thank you for your cooperation and support in 2025. Let us do it again in 2026,” he added.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In the ongoing efforts to thwart economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, Tantita Security Services Ltd, the firm engaged in pipeline surveillance operations in the oil -rich region, has nabbed four suspected oil thieves, intercepting their vessel named MT Thor. Suspects are to undergo trial for economic sabotage .
Speaking at the handover of the suspects at Koko Port, Tantita’s Executive Director of Operations, Capt Warredi Enisouh, said the suspects were apprehended with an unspecified quantity of suspected illegally-sourced petroleum products aboard the vessel.
The interception occurred on 15 December 2025, around the Koko–Excravos axis of Delta State, says a situation report made available by the Special Prosecution Team (SPT) of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Petroleum Product Theft.
The report stated that Tantita alerted the Head of Investigation of the SPT after intercepting MT Thor, allegedly laden with crude oil obtained through illicit means.
It was further alleged that the vessel was being escorted by personnel of the Police Marine Unit, Delta State, who reportedly claimed they were acting on directives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja.
Preliminary investigations by law enforcement agencies revealed that the vessel, now classified as an exhibit in an ongoing criminal investigation, is linked to a jetty operated by Ebenco Global Services Limited. Investigation officers disclosed that documents and correspondence connected to the jetty were obtained and are currently under review.
“The owner of the jetty, Mr. Ebenezer, was contacted by investigators and reportedly provided additional documents, including court orders, which are also being analysed as part of the investigation.
“On December 16, a joint investigation team led by the Head of Investigation of the SPT conducted a Joint Inspection Visit in Koko. The team first met at Tantita’s corporate headquarters in Warri for a briefing, which was also attended by the jetty owner.
“During the inspection, investigators attempted to obtain samples from MT Thor but were unable to do so immediately as the vessel had not yet arrived at the jetty, having been towed from an earlier location by security operatives.
“While awaiting the vessel’s arrival, the team inspected other containers suspected to be carrying crude oil within the premises of Ebenco Global Links Limited, where samples were taken from a storage barge.
“MT Thor eventually berthed at about 8:30 p.m. on 16 December, prompting the joint team to adjourn sampling and other procedures until the following day. As of 17 December 2025, investigators were reported to be en route to Koko to continue sample collection and complete investigation formalities,” the report read.
Receiving the suspects, the Head of the Special Prosecution Team of the Inter-Agency Task Force, Omar Sini, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to dismantle crude oil theft networks in the Niger Delta, assuring that all findings would be thoroughly examined and prosecuted in line with the law.
OIL FACILITIES PROTECTION: Tompolo’s Tantita Acquires High-Tech Drones From US Firm.
NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: MARAN Appreciates Stakeholders, Requests Greater Support and Collaboration in 2026.
NIGER DELTA SECURITY : Tantita Arrests 4 Oil Thieves, Nabs Vessel .
Tincan Customs Achieves N51.8Bn Surplus Above 2025 Revenue Target
NSC Boss, Akutah, Speaks At Maritime Journalists’ Seminar, Harps on Developing Trends the Press Cannot Overlook.
NIGERIA’S IMO FEAT: NIMASA Hails Media Contributions, Seeks Support For Sustained Momentum.
OGUN 1 CUSTOMS: No Hiding Place for Smugglers, D.C.Afeni Pledges, Confiscates Exotic Cars, 2bn Worth of Contrabands in 11 Days.
Lekki Deepsea Port Set to Achieve Full Capacity Before Expectations, Deepens Barge Operations, among others.
FIGHT AGAINST FINANCIAL CRIMES: MMIA CAC Makes Huge Haul of Foreign Currencies, Hands Over To EFCC
WIKE AT 62: TSSL Celebrates Courage, Conviction and Unwavering Sense of Duty.
MARITIME SEMINAR FOR JUDGES: Group Urges Probe of Shippers’ Council Funds.
Industry Gurus Head To Badagry As BACCIMA, Portbizness Discuss Trans-Border International Trade.
OGUN 1 CUSTOMS: DC Oladapo Afeni Pledges Stronger Trade Facilitation, Border Security As He Becomes Acting CAC.
Shippers’ Council Boss, Akutah, Advocates Stronger Alternative Disputes Resolution, Bags Special Honours from NBA
MMA Customs Command Hits 100.1% of Annual Revenue Target 11 Months Before Year-End.
MARAN Dissolves Exco, Appoints An Interim Leadership.
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
INLAND WATERWAYS OFFERS NIGERIA ALTERNATIVE REVENUE SOURCE, Says Sambo
Photo News: Salah Celebration
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
Lilypond Export Command Is Meeting Expectations, Handles 70% of Nigeria’s Total Tonnage of Export Cargo, says CAC Odusanya.
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
BENIN SEAPORT UPDATE: Edo State Government, Host Communities, Conduct Bidders To Inspect Project Site.
MAN, Oron, Kick-starts Simulator-based Training, Commends FG, NIMASA.
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
-
Customs3 weeks agoNSC Boss, Akutah, Speaks At Maritime Journalists’ Seminar, Harps on Developing Trends the Press Cannot Overlook.
-
Customs3 weeks agoTincan Customs Achieves N51.8Bn Surplus Above 2025 Revenue Target
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoNIGER DELTA SECURITY : Tantita Arrests 4 Oil Thieves, Nabs Vessel .
-
Maritime Agencies7 days agoOIL FACILITIES PROTECTION: Tompolo’s Tantita Acquires High-Tech Drones From US Firm.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoNEW YEAR CELEBRATION: MARAN Appreciates Stakeholders, Requests Greater Support and Collaboration in 2026.