Blue economy: Nigeria woos Danish investors

Blue economy: Nigeria woos Danish investors

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has stated that Nigeria is well positioned to benefit from Denmark’s expertise in the blue economy and is open to welcoming Danish investors into the country’s maritime sector. He made this known while receiving the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Jens Ole Bach Hansen, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Oyetola described Denmark as a key maritime partner and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation to unlock the vast opportunities in the marine and blue economy. He assured Danish investors of a favourable business environment, strong institutional backing and attractive returns. The minister also appreciated Denmark’s support for Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in November 2025, noting that the achievement has enhanced Nigeria’s global maritime profile.

The minister praised Danish investment in Nigeria’s ports, particularly through APM Terminals’ operations in Apapa and Onne, describing them as vital to improving port efficiency and modernising maritime infrastructure. He outlined several ongoing reforms by the ministry, including the development of a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, improved maritime security that has eliminated piracy in Nigerian waters, port modernisation, revitalisation of inland waterways, fisheries and aquaculture development, and marine biodiversity conservation.

According to Oyetola, these initiatives are aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, creating jobs, boosting trade and positioning Nigeria as a major maritime hub in Africa. He reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to protect investments and ensure long-term growth in the sector.

In his remarks, Ambassador Hansen congratulated Nigeria on its IMO Council membership, describing it as recognition of the country’s growing leadership in maritime affairs. He said the position would allow Nigeria to influence global maritime policies and contribute to international decisions on safety, security and environmental protection. The ambassador highlighted Denmark’s USD 1.2 billion investment in Nigerian ports through APM Terminals and revealed plans for further expansion. He also pointed to Denmark’s expertise in wind energy and green maritime technologies and expressed willingness to share knowledge and deepen collaboration with Nigeria in developing its marine and blue economy.

Both sides agreed to continue engagement and explore additional areas of partnership, investment and technical cooperation to advance Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy agenda.