The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has highlighted the judiciary as a pivotal partner in advancing Nigeria’s Blue Economy, describing it as an indispensable pillar for maritime development.

Speaking at the 4th Edition of the Admiralty Law Colloquium in Lagos, themed “Charting the Course of Nigeria’s Blue Economy”, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized that effective judicial interpretation of maritime laws is crucial to realising the nation’s Blue Economy ambitions.

“Nigeria’s Blue Economy requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, with the judiciary as a crucial actor. Interpretation of legal instruments and case decisions is vital for sustainable development,” Dr. Mobereola stated. He noted that a proactive judiciary helps raise industry standards, promote investment confidence, and enhance regulatory certainty, which are essential for maritime growth.

Representing the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Justice Emmanuel Akomoye Agim (JSC) praised NIMASA and the National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) for organising the colloquium. He urged judicial officers to actively shape the Blue Economy through sound adjudication and policy interpretation.

“The judiciary must not stand at the shoreline as a passive observer but rather navigate the complex waters of maritime development,” Justice Kekere-Ekun said, stressing the importance of a strong legal foundation in maritime governance to attract investments, create jobs, and diversify the economy.

The technical session featured maritime law experts, Dr. Emeka Akabogu (SAN) and Dr. Chukwuchefu Ukatta, who highlighted the synergy needed between judicial processes and maritime industry operations. A subsequent panel discussion, chaired by Prof. A. J. Abikan, Director-General of NIALS, provided an interactive platform for judges, lawyers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to exchange views on improving admiralty law adjudication and maritime policy execution.

Other dignitaries at the event included the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice M. B. Dongban-Mensem, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, both represented by senior judicial officers.

The Admiralty Law Colloquium, jointly organised by NIMASA and NIALS with support from the National Judicial Institute (NJI), is held annually to strengthen judicial capacity in maritime law, advance maritime security, and support Nigeria’s Blue Economy framework.

Nigeria’s Blue Economy, valued at over $300 billion continent-wide by the African Union, spans shipping, fisheries, energy, and coastal tourism. Analysts note that legal clarity and effective judicial intervention are critical to attracting global shipping lines, securing investments, and ensuring sustainability.

Through deepened collaboration with the judiciary, NIMASA aims to ensure that Nigeria’s ports, shipping operations, and marine resources contribute meaningfully to national economic growth, aligning maritime governance with international best practices.