Maritime Lawyers Urge Tinubu to Expedite Port Bill

At the 18th International Maritime Seminar for Justices held at Abuja Continental Hotel, Chief Michael Igbokwe, SAN, President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA), called on President Tinubu to fast-track the Port Regulatory Agency Bill. Igbokwe emphasized that the bill, which has been submitted to the president twice, is crucial for implementing reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector and maximizing the benefits of ongoing port modernization.

He stated that the proposed legislation would empower the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to enhance its regulatory functions, improve port efficiency, and boost investor confidence. Igbokwe urged the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to establish an admiralty registry to expedite maritime dispute resolutions.

Minister of Maritime and Blue Economy, Adeboyega Oyetola, noted that the Tinubu administration has laid the groundwork for a thriving marine economy, while Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, highlighted the government's commitment to the Blue Economy as a strategic priority for economic diversification.