The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has introduced the Blue Economy Accelerator Programme (NIMASA-BEAP) and the National Innovation Hackathon. This strategic initiative aims to attract young innovators into Nigeria's marine and blue economy industry, stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship, and draw private-sector investment into the sector. NIMASA-BEAP is designed to provide a structured platform for young Nigerians and innovative enterprises to develop solutions to challenges and opportunities across Nigeria's maritime and blue economy value chain.
NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the initiative as a national development imperative aimed at positioning Nigeria to derive greater economic value from its maritime resources. He noted that Nigeria's maritime economy presents a significant opportunity for economic diversification, job creation, innovation, and increased participation of Nigerians in the maritime value chain. Mobereola emphasized that Nigeria's maritime economy is a multi-billion naira frontier that has been largely untapped, with less than three percent of the value moving through its waters being captured.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, commended NIMASA for the bold initiative, saying it represents a paradigm shift from only regulating to engendering the implementation of the blue economy for Nigeria's benefit. Oyetola urged stakeholders, including commercial banks, development finance partners, and maritime stakeholders, to invest, mentor, and partner with NIMASA to advance the blue economy sector. He expressed pride in championing the initiative, highlighting its potential to drive growth and innovation in the maritime sector.
Participants at the event commended NIMASA for the novel initiative and pledged their commitment to partner with the Agency to ensure its full realization. Representatives of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, First Bank, Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank, Wema Bank, Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), Tamrose Limited, Petromarine Limited, and Starzs Investment Limited were among those who committed to partnering with NIMASA to drive the NIMASA Blue Economy Accelerator Programme.
The NIMASA Blue Economy Accelerator Programme has been designed with clear timelines, responsibilities, and accountability mechanisms to ensure effective delivery. The programme will open to young innovators aged 18 to 28 on October 5, 2026, when the NIMASA-BEAP application portal goes live. Applications will close on November 13, 2026, while independent evaluation and due diligence will take place from November 16 to December 2, 2026.
In a related development, the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC) has intensified its push for seamless, transparent, and predictable port operations. The Council called for stronger inter-agency coordination and faster processes to improve Nigeria's competitiveness in regional and international trade. NPCC Chairman, Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, expressed concern over persistent challenges confronting Nigerian ports, including the resurgence of traffic gridlock around Lagos ports.
NIMASA has also announced that its Maritime Electronic Management System (MEMS) is now live. The platform aims to strengthen digital traceability, improve visibility into vessel movements and operational records, and support faster regulatory decisions. The system will deploy centralized data, automated alerts, and smart invoicing to improve documentation, reduce manual processes, and strengthen compliance.
Key points
- NIMASA launches Blue Economy Accelerator Programme to drive growth in the maritime sector.
- Programme aims to attract young innovators and stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Initiative expected to boost economic diversification, job creation, and private-sector investment in the maritime sector.
