Justice at Sea: Judiciary, NIMASA chart new course for blue economy growth
Mobereola, CJN harp on legal synergy for maritime growth
By Maureen Aguta
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has spotlighted the judiciary as a critical ally in unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s Blue Economy, underscoring the centrality of law and justice in maritime growth and sustainability.
Speaking at the 4th edition of the Admiralty Law Colloquium in Lagos, themed “Charting the Course of Nigeria’s Blue Economy,” NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said Nigeria’s maritime future depends on the effective interpretation and enforcement of legal instruments that govern ocean resources and activities.
“Nigeria’s Blue Economy requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, with the Judiciary as a crucial actor,” Mobereola stated. “The interpretation of maritime laws and judicial decisions is vital to achieving sustainable growth in the sector.”
The NIMASA chief highlighted the need for a robust legal foundation to enhance investor confidence, improve maritime safety, and drive innovation across shipping, logistics, fisheries, and coastal tourism — key pillars of the emerging Blue Economy.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, represented by Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC, CFR, lauded NIMASA and the National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) for sustaining the colloquium, which she described as “a crucial platform for judicial enlightenment on maritime jurisprudence.”
“The task before us is to ensure that Nigeria’s Blue Economy does not remain a conceptual aspiration but becomes a tangible driver of growth, equity, and sustainability,” the CJN said.
“The Judiciary must not stand at the shoreline as a passive observer but serve as an active navigator — steering the ship of justice through the complex waters of maritime development.”
The event featured technical papers by leading maritime law experts, Dr. Emeka Akabogu, SAN, and Dr. Chukwuchefu Ukatta, both of whom emphasized the indispensable role of the courts in harmonizing legal frameworks that support maritime investments and dispute resolution.
A high-level panel discussion chaired by Professor A. J. Abikan, Director General of NIALS, explored opportunities for judicial reform, while participants engaged in an interactive session that examined the nexus between law, commerce, and sustainable ocean governance.
Dignitaries in attendance included the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, represented by Hon. Justice E. O. Williams-Dawodu; and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Tsoho, represented by Hon. Justice A. Faji.
The Admiralty Law Colloquium, jointly organized by NIMASA and NIALS with support from the National Judicial Institute (NJI), has become a flagship event for deepening maritime legal education and fostering stronger collaboration between the maritime and judicial sectors in Nigeria’s quest for Blue Economy excellence.