The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has underscored the judiciary as a critical partner in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.
This position was reiterated by the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, at the 4th Edition of the Admiralty Law Colloquium held in Lagos with the theme, “Charting the Course of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.” The event reflects the growing national focus on harnessing maritime resources for sustainable economic growth.
In his welcome address, Dr. Mobereola emphasized that the growth of the Blue Economy demands a collaborative approach. He stated, “Nigeria’s Blue Economy requires an all hands on deck approach, with the Judiciary as a crucial actor, where interpretation of legal instruments and case decisions remains a vital tool for the sustainable development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.”
He commended the indispensable role of the judiciary in interpreting maritime laws and ensuring legal clarity in the industry, which, he noted, contributes significantly to improving maritime standards and fostering development.
The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokumbo Kekere-Ekun, represented by Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomoye Agim, JSC, CFR. She praised the collaboration between NIMASA and the National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) in hosting the colloquium aimed at enhancing the capacity of judicial officers in admiralty law. “The task before us is to ensure that Nigeria’s Blue Economy does not remain a conceptual aspiration but becomes a tangible driver of growth, equity, and sustainability,” she said. “The Judiciary must not stand at the shoreline as a passive observer, but rather as an active navigator — steering the ship of justice through the complex waters of maritime development.”
The event featured technical contributions from maritime law experts, including Dr. Emeka Akabogu, SAN, and Dr. Chukwuchefu Ukatta, who spoke on the importance of aligning judicial processes with the development objectives of the Blue Economy. A panel discussion led by Professor A. J. Abikan, Director General of NIALS, and an interactive session with stakeholders brought the event to a close.
Dignitaries present included the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice M. B. Dongbam-Mensem, represented by Hon. Justice E. O. Williams-Dawodu, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Tsoho, represented by Hon. Justice A. Faji.
The Admiralty Law Colloquium, jointly organized by NIMASA and NIALS with support from the National Judicial Institute (NJI), is held annually to promote discourse on maritime law, improve adjudication processes, strengthen maritime security, and advance Nigeria’s Blue Economy.
— Osagie Edward, FNIPR
Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations
