AMJON Calls for Immediate Action in Bridging the Maritime Industry's Financial Divide

Kathy Kyari

The Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) has highlighted how critical it is to close the financial gap in the marine sector, which has impeded the growth of Nigeria's blue economy.

AMJON President, Mr. Paul Ogbuokiri stated this in his opening address on Thursday at the 2024 Maritime Finance Conference in Lagos.

The conference emphasized the association's dedication to nation-building through proficient reporting and advocacy.

With the theme, "Vessel Acquisition/Construction: Nigeria's Banks, Insurance Firms, Government and the Blue Economy", Ogbuokiri claims that the conference's focus this year was specifically chosen to bring together regulators, financiers, investors, and insurers in order to solve the problems impeding the development of the sector.

He continued by saying that it is crucial that the objectives of the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is fully maximized since the nation is trying to fully use its resources for the blue economy.

While highlighting the significance of teamwork in tackling the issues confronting the marine industry, He expressed his appreciation to NSML for their cooperation.

"With the government’s focus on diversifying the economy and boosting revenue, the time for all hands to be on deck in developing the Nigerian maritime industry is now," he said

In order to realize the full potential of Nigeria's blue economy, he called on stakeholders to have in-depth conversations about how to promote increased collaboration between the government, the financial sector, and actors in the marine industry.

The NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) collaborated with AMJON to organize the event, which brought together financial experts, government officials, and leaders in the industry to discuss the urgent financing gaps inhibiting the expansion of Nigeria's marine industry and the country's blue economy.

In attendance were the MD/CEO NSML, Mr Abdulkadir Ahmed, DG NIMASA, represented by the Executive Director, Administration and Human Resources, Mr Isichie Osamgbe, CGC Bashir Adeniyi represented by CAC, Tincan Command, Compt. Dera Nnadi, Executive Secretary, Shippers Council, Pius Akutah represented by Cadson Temitope, Principal Officer, Regulatory Services, and NIWA