The Chairman of Bras Marine and Yacht Services Limited, Yomi Sonuga, has said Nigeria can emerge as a leading aqua-tourism destination in Africa if greater attention is given to marine safety, boating culture, navigation systems and waterfront infrastructure.

Sonuga noted that countries such as Seychelles, Maldives and Cancun have successfully transformed their coastlines and waterways into major tourism assets through sustained investments in safety, infrastructure and recreational boating.

He said Nigeria possesses significant untapped potential, citing its approximately 850-kilometre coastline along the Gulf of Guinea, extensive inland waterways, lagoons, creeks, estuaries and islands.

According to him, the Lagos lagoon network presents opportunities for sightseeing cruises, recreational boating, waterfront dining and water transportation, while the river systems of the Niger Delta offer prospects for eco-tourism and cultural experiences.

Sonuga stressed that marine safety should form the foundation of any effort to develop the sector, advocating investments in life-saving equipment, operator certification, vessel inspections, weather monitoring systems and emergency response services.

He also highlighted the need for modern navigation technologies, including digital marine charts, vessel-tracking systems and improved channel markings, noting that such measures would enhance operational efficiency and public confidence.

The maritime entrepreneur further called for the development of marinas, docking facilities, maintenance centres and other supporting infrastructure to attract investment and improve visitor experiences.