A big coalition of local investors has pledged to transform Nigeria’s maritime sector into a global tourism hub.
The group, known as the Allied Concessionaires and Blue Economy Alliance, met with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) this week.
During the visit to the NIWA Lagos Area Office, the coalition promised to drive massive investments into waterfront hospitality and water transport.
The Chairman of the alliance, Bolaji Olasade, stated that the group is not just a regular association.
Instead, it is a consortium of proven operators ready to redefine recreation on Nigeria’s “brown waters.”
Olasade alleged that the country’s vast coastline is currently underused. Consequently, the alliance plans to integrate safe ferry systems with modern resorts to create thousands of new jobs for coastal communities.
Focus on Public-Private Partnerships
The Secretary of the coalition, Barrister Dorcas Aderemi, also spoke about the need for better funding models.
She called for a structured public-private partnership (PPP) with the government to speed up development.
Aderemi observed that the maritime economy can only grow if the inland waterways are properly aligned to support sustainable investment. This comes as the government prepares to launch a $1 billion Blue Economy Fund later this month.
In response, the NIWA Lagos Area Manager, Sarat Braimah, welcomed the partnership. She admitted that the government cannot develop the sector alone without serious private investors.
Braimah also mentioned that NIWA is working to phase out old, unsafe wooden boats. She stated that introducing new, modern vessels will improve safety and attract more international tourists to Nigeria’s shores.
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