The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola has urged Danish investors to take advantage of opportunities in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector.
Oyetola made the call on Tuesday while hosting the Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, Mr. Jens Ole Bach Hansen, in Abuja.
The minister said Nigeria was ready to deepen bilateral cooperation with Denmark in maritime development, renewable energy and sustainable ocean-based industries.
He described Denmark as a strategic maritime partner and assured potential investors of a favourable investment climate, strong institutional backing and attractive returns in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The minister thanked the Danish government for supporting Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in November 2025, noting that the achievement had strengthened Nigeria’s voice and influence in global maritime affairs.
Minister Oyetola also commended Danish investment in Nigeria’s port sector through APM Terminals, which operates in Apapa and Onne Ports, describing the investment as critical to ongoing efforts to modernise port infrastructure and improve operational efficiency.
Oyetola outlined key reforms being implemented by the ministry to unlock the country’s marine and blue economy potential, including the development of a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, improved maritime security that has led to the elimination of piracy in Nigerian waters and a significant reduction of incidents in the Gulf of Guinea.
Also, port modernisation programmes, revitalisation of inland waterways, fisheries and aquaculture development, and marine biodiversity conservation.
According to him, the initiatives are expected to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, enhance trade facilitation and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the regional and global maritime industry.
Speaking earlier, Ambassador Hansen congratulated Nigeria on its election into the IMO Council, describing it as recognition of the country’s growing leadership in maritime affairs.
He said the position would enable Nigeria to contribute more effectively to international maritime policy and decision-making on safety, security and environmental protection.
The ambassador disclosed that APM Terminals has invested about $1.2 billion in Nigerian ports, with plans for further expansion, and expressed Denmark’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Nigeria in areas such as wind energy, green shipping and other sustainable maritime technologies.
