By Babajide Okeowo
The Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, saying this clearly displays the capacity and ability of President Tinubu to transform the nation’s maritime sector and by extension the economy.
In the same vein, the association congratulated the new Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, on his appointment by President Tinubu and described the appointment as reward for hard work and commitment.
The BOAN President, Hon. Olubunmi Olumekun, gave the commendation in a statement issued by the association in Lagos on Tiuesday and signed by himself.
According to the BOAN President, “I, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Executive and members of the Barge Operators’ Association of Nigeria, express warm regards and congratulations on your (Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola) appointment as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is an honor well deserved, and is a testament of your hard work, commitment, dedication and positive contribution to nation building. Congratulations once again!
“The Barge Operators’ Association of Nigeria (BOAN) was formed with the core mandate to promote coastal and inland shipping of cargo (bulk, liquid, containerized etc) in Nigeria using barges, either self propelled or with the assistance of a tugboat. Data has shown that in the past half a decade, an estimated three million (3,000,000) TEUs of import and export containers have been shipped through the inland waterways from the Nigerian Ports and jetties using barges, with a volume of trade translating to billions of Naira. This data which covers containerized cargo only goes to show the influence of BOAN and barge operations in boosting trade as well as the nation’s marine and blue economy.
“The wisdom of Mr. President, Your Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR in establishing a new ministry for the maritime sector clearly displays his capacity and ability to transform the nation’s maritime sector and by extension the economy. The development and sustainability of the Marine & Blue economy is of critical importance particularly for a maritime nation like ours. It is our utmost belief that your charismatic leadership in coordinating the affairs of the ministry while instilling the spirit of cooperation and synergy amongst all industry stakeholders will set the tone for an improved maritime sector.
“A critical facet of the Marine & Blue economy in Nigeria is the Inland & Coastal Shipping industry with its primary legislation, the Coastal & inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, 2003. It is no coincidence that this novel ministry under your astute leadership has been created, exactly two decades after the enactment of the Cabotage Act.
“Nigeria being a signatory to the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) further underscores the potential of the coastal and inland shipping sector in developing trade, boosting export, creating employment, strengthen the Naira, improving the economy amongst others. Taking advantage of this opportunity will further show Nigeria as a maritime powerhouse and a deserving member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.
“The pertinence of a synergistic relationship between the Ministry and the Barge Operators’ Association of Nigeria (BOAN) cannot be overemphasized, thus the clarion call for cooperation. It is our honest belief that ‘our’ ministry will transform the nation and place it in an enviable position amongst the committee of nations.
“We anticipate further engagement with your good offices and potentially a courtesy visit subject to your overriding convenience. Please accept the assurances of our highest and esteemed regards. We assure you of our unwavering support and wish you well in all your endeavors.”
