The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to unlock over $2 billion in maritime investments under a new Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), a landmark initiative aimed at transforming the nation’s marine and blue economy.
The announcement followed the formal presentation of the NCSP initiative to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. The high-level NCSP delegation was led by its Director-General, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, who unveiled a comprehensive Nigeria–China Maritime Strategy designed to reposition Nigeria as a competitive maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
According to Mr. Tegbe, the strategy prioritizes building indigenous shipping capacity, facilitating ship acquisition for Nigerian-owned companies, and granting direct access to Chinese shipyards, maritime financiers, and technical training institutions. The initiative also emphasizes technology transfer, maritime education, and workforce development to deepen local content in the sector.
“This partnership opens doors for Nigerian shipping firms to secure vessels, financing, and technical expertise directly from China,” Tegbe said. “It is a critical step toward creating a self-reliant and globally competitive maritime industry for Nigeria.”
Minister Oyetola hailed the initiative as a visionary step aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that the maritime sector remains pivotal to Nigeria’s economic diversification.
“This proposal is not just timely; it is transformative. It offers a clear pathway to achieving indigenous participation in shipping and maritime logistics while attracting credible international partnerships,” Oyetola stated.
He further assured that the Federal Government will provide the necessary policy and institutional backing to ensure the successful implementation of the Nigeria–China Maritime Strategy.
The NCSP initiative is projected to serve as a catalyst for vessel financing, job creation, and infrastructure development in Nigeria’s port cities, while strengthening the nation’s position in regional and global maritime trade. It also aligns with the Ministry’s broader mandate to harness Nigeria’s vast marine resources, enhance regulatory efficiency, and attract sustainable investments into the blue economy.
With the global shipping industry rapidly evolving, the Federal Government’s engagement with strategic partners like China signals a renewed focus on unlocking Nigeria’s maritime potential and securing its place as a key player in international trade.
