The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Nigerian Navy have stepped up their partnership to improve maritime security and protect trade routes in Nigeria. The move aims to make shipping safer, reduce risks at sea, and support a more efficient trading environment.

• Senior officials from both agencies met to improve coordination. Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, and Dr Pius Akutah, NSC Executive Secretary, discussed ongoing security programs and goals for the blue economy.

• The Navy highlighted its expanded coverage in the western maritime region, citing recent operations like Exercise Omi Ailewu and Operation Safe Ember, alongside increased fleet deployments to combat sea-based crime.

• Both organisations emphasised that a stronger naval capacity is essential for safe shipping, smoother trade, and regulatory efficiency.

• The NSC stressed that maritime security is crucial for Nigeria’s role in global trade, with about 90% of world commerce transported by sea. Challenges include insurance concerns, port inefficiencies, stowaways, and clearance delays affecting shipping throughput.

• The partnership is timely as Nigeria participates in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Officials say better maritime security could lower freight costs and boost competitiveness across African markets.

• Both sides are committed to ongoing collaboration to ensure Nigeria remains a safe and efficient trading hub.

Implications:

• Safer waters reduce shipping risks, lower costs, and may attract more trade and investment.

• Continued coordination between regulatory bodies and the Navy is key to fighting piracy, theft, and other crimes at sea.

• Focus on environmentally sustainable shipping aligns with global efforts to create a greener, more efficient maritime sector.

Updates on Nigeria’s sea trade insurance and risk management, Port efficiency and digitalisation improvements to speed up cargo clearance, Effects of AfCFTA reforms on cross-border trade costs and logistics.