The Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC) has called on the Federal Government to prioritise the revitalisation of Nigeria’s steel industry as a strategic move to strengthen shipbuilding and automobile manufacturing.
The appeal was made by Eugene Nweke, Head of Research at SEREC, in response to a recent statement by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who revealed that blue economy revenue had surged by 90 per cent and could soon outpace earnings from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
While Nweke welcomed the minister’s optimism, he stressed the need for measurable and practical strategies to achieve the sector’s full potential.
“Though the claim seems plausible, it’s essential to monitor progress and address potential challenges to ensure the blue economy reaches its full potential,” he said.
He further commended the minister’s enthusiasm but advised that the ministry place more focus on administrative and operational efficiency within maritime sectors.
“SEREC wishes to encourage the minister to strive towards revamping the steel industry, which could boost our shipbuilding and automobile sectors, with its inherent high job creation and technological advancements,” Nweke added.
The call reinforces a broader industry sentiment that reviving key industrial sectors like steel could unlock long-term value for Nigeria’s maritime and transportation ambitions.
