Foreign Control Of Nigeria’s Coastal Waters Poses Security Threat, Expert Warns

A former Director of Shipping Development and Cabotage, Boniface Igwe, has raised concerns over the growing dominance of foreign operators in Nigeria’s coastal waters, warning that the situation could pose a serious threat to the country’s national security and maritime sovereignty.

Igwe made the remarks in his forthcoming book, Cabotage Law and Practice, where he argued that Nigeria’s failure to effectively protect its coastal shipping sector could have consequences beyond the economy.

Foreign Operators Dominate Coastal Trade

According to Igwe, reserving coastal shipping activities for indigenous operators is not only an economic policy but also an important national security measure.

He noted that unrestricted foreign participation in a country’s coastal waters could weaken the ability of the government to protect its maritime interests and develop local capacity.

Igwe said countries around the world have historically created protected markets for local businesses in strategic sectors to help them build capacity and become competitive internationally.

He explained that such policies are often driven by economic, political and security considerations.

Billions At Stake In Maritime Sector

The former shipping official highlighted the importance of Nigeria’s maritime industry to the wider economy, particularly its relationship with the oil and gas sector.

According to figures cited in his book, Nigeria generates an average annual cargo traffic of about 152 million metric tonnes, translating to approximately $5 billion in freight earnings.

However, Igwe claimed that nearly 90 per cent of these earnings go to foreign-controlled businesses, leaving Nigerian operators with only a small share of the country’s maritime economy.

Call For Stronger Cabotage Protection

Igwe’s concerns have renewed attention on Nigeria’s cabotage policy, which is designed to promote indigenous participation in domestic maritime transportation.

He argued that strengthening the country’s local shipping industry would not only create economic opportunities but also help Nigeria develop the expertise, vessels and manpower needed to secure its coastal waters.

With the maritime sector serving as a critical link between Nigeria and its oil and gas industry, Igwe warned that continued foreign dominance could leave the country vulnerable in an area considered vital to both its economy and national security.