The Nigerian Maritime Sector – Regulations And Challenges

The Nigerian economy is a mixed economy and the maritime sector is a major sector of the Nigerian economy, taking into consideration that the country is a major oil-producing and exporting country. The maritime industry plays a pivotal role in the development of the country's economic growth.

The legal framework regulating the maritime sector in Nigeria encompasses a wide range of laws and International Conventions, to wit; the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), the Admiralty Jurisdiction Act 1991, the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the NIMASA Act and the Cabotage Act. These laws and Conventions have helped to shape the Maritime sector. Adhering to the provisions of these regulations is therefore essential for promoting safety, security, and sustainable growth in Nigeria's maritime sector.¹ A breakdown of these regulations is seen below;