Group projects 20,000 jobs from Maritime reforms

The Democratic Front (TDF) has announced that ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s maritime industry are expected to create 20,000 new jobs.

In a statement issued by the group’s chairman, Malam Danjuma Muhammad, on Wednesday in Abuja, he emphasised that plans to dredge key ports would be crucial in helping Nigeria regain its status as West Africa’s maritime hub.

Muhammad also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s strong commitment to developing Nigeria’s maritime resources, particularly through the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

He noted that many industry stakeholders viewed this move as a strategic effort to expand opportunities and promote economic diversification within the sector.

The TDF chairman further stated that the Ministry had not only initiated reforms but was actively driving efforts to strengthen the sector.

He pointed out that these reforms contributed to a significant increase in revenue, with more than N850 billion generated in 2024—a 77 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

Muhammad expressed optimism that the dredging of seaports, which would allow larger vessels to dock, would boost national revenue and make the ports more attractive.

Muhammad urged the Blue Economy Ministry to ensure that the ports’ overhaul became one of President Tinubu’s key achievements in the maritime sector.