By Ali Elias
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) reinforced its commitment to sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector by participating in the Maritime Business Roundtable Breakfast Meeting (MBRBM) on Thursday, March 27, 2025. The event, organized by Zoe Maritime Resources Ltd, was held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, and brought together key players in the maritime logistics sector to discuss strategies for fostering sustainability in the ocean economy.
The Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatshola Ogbe (FNSE), was represented at the event by Mr. Silas Omomehin Ajimijaye, General Manager, Research, Statistics, and Development Division (RSDD). Speaking as a panelist, Mr. Ajimijaye emphasized NCDMB’s pivotal role in promoting Nigerian participation in marine activities within the oil and gas industry. He cited the Board’s mandate under Section 105 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act of 2010, which ensures the enforcement of local content policies in the sector.
Under the theme “Maritime Logistics & Sustainability of the Ocean Economy,” the roundtable focused on unlocking growth opportunities and advancing sustainable maritime logistics. Mr. Ajimijaye highlighted NCDMB’s collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to strengthen compliance with the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act. This partnership is geared toward deepening Nigerian content in maritime operations and reducing dependence on foreign vessels in local waters.
“Our strategic partnership with NIMASA is key to enforcing compliance with the Cabotage Act, which is essential for fostering indigenous capacity in maritime logistics,” Mr. Ajimijaye stated during the panel discussion. He also reiterated NCDMB’s dedication to enhancing local participation in offshore activities through capacity building, policy enforcement, and investment in marine assets.
The meeting provided an opportunity for industry stakeholders to exchange ideas on improving Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure while ensuring sustainable practices. Other industry leaders present at the event echoed the need for increased indigenous involvement in maritime logistics to harness the full potential of the nation’s blue economy.
NCDMB’s participation in the roundtable underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable maritime development, promoting indigenous capacity, and ensuring the growth of the ocean economy in alignment with Nigeria’s local content laws.
As the maritime and oil and gas sectors continue to evolve, NCDMB remains at the forefront of championing policies that drive industrialization and job creation while ensuring long-term sustainability in Nigeria’s ocean economy.