As Nigeria marks its 64th anniversary, maritime operators have called on the Federal Government to address fluctuating exchange rates to boost importation and enhance the sector’s growth. While acknowledging significant progress in recent years, operators emphasize the impact of fiscal policies, particularly on dollar floating rates, which continue to challenge the industry.
Sikiru Remilekun, Youth Leader of the Tincan Island Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, highlighted the need to peg the exchange rate for cargo clearance below N1,000/$ to stimulate over 200 percent growth in the sector. He also pointed to issues of bureaucracy and insufficient capacity building as barriers to further development.
Williams Ogunshakin, South-West Director of the Merchant Seafarers Association of Nigeria, urged the government to support the Marine Pollution (MARPOL) efforts by establishing a waterway waste management system similar to the Lagos Waste Management Authority. He emphasized that waste in water bodies, such as rags and discarded items, is a major cause of accidents.
Ogunshakin praised recent improvements in maritime security, noting that collaboration between stakeholders and the military has led to a safer coastline, but stressed the need for continued efforts to achieve zero tolerance for accidents.
