Clarion Shipping launches Indigenous Vessel Ocean Dragon, To Sail in October
Nigeria’s indigenous shipping industry received a major boost on Tuesday as Clarion Shipping officially inaugurated its new vessel, Ocean Dragon, set to begin operations in October.
Founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, announced during the inauguration in Lagos that the vessel will operate under a Free on Board (FOB) arrangement in naira—a move he described as crucial to saving Nigeria’s economy billions in foreign exchange.
Aniebonam urged importers, exporters, and stakeholders to rally behind the initiative, stressing that indigenous shipping had collapsed largely due to lack of commitment. He commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its Cabotage law, which was designed to protect and support local shipping businesses.
“Clarion Shipping has taken a huge risk to bring this vessel into the country. With this step, we can stop losing resources to foreign shipping lines. Nigerians must embrace this opportunity,” he said.
He also criticized the payment of war risk surcharges by shippers, describing it as unjustified, while assuring that Clarion Shipping would not impose such costs.
Delivering a goodwill message, Chairman of the occasion and importer, Chief Chinedu Ukatu, hailed the project as a “game-changer” for Nigeria’s maritime sector. Ukatu, who also serves as President of the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, said the vessel’s capacity to carry larger volumes of cargo would help reduce Nigeria’s carbon footprint and strengthen international trade.
“This unveiling is not just about a ship—it’s about a new era. The Ocean Dragon will set the pace for sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly shipping practices,” Ukatu said.
Vice President of Clarion Shipping, Mrs. Ifeoma Eloka, explained that the company was established to address challenges faced by Nigerian and African exporters.
“Currently, we operate internationally, with a strong base in Abidjan. If we get more patronage within Africa, we will expand further. Our goal is to make Nigeria a hub for export shipping,” she noted.
Operational Manager of Clarion Shipping, Mr. Solomon Ogudo, emphasized that the company offers multiple destination options, faster delivery, and inland port access across Nigeria—including Onne, Kano, and Onitsha.
He highlighted additional incentives such as 21 days of free container deposit, flexible demurrage waivers, and dedicated customer support teams in both China and Nigeria.
Ogudo disclosed that the Ocean Dragon will depart China on September 28 and is expected to berth in Nigeria by October 25.
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