The Nigerian federal government has revealed plans to build a shipyard in the country in an attempt to revive Nigerias maritime sector
The shipyard, when completed, will be expected to generate employment for youth and improve the nation’s economy.
The project, which has received approval from necessary authorities, will also have facilities for dry docking ocean vessels.
Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency director-general Patrick Akpobolokemi said that the establishment of the new shipyard will be expected to drive sustainable development and step up capacity building in the maritime sector of the economy.
Akpobolokemi added, “We will not only build ships with a facility for dry docking in the shipyard, we will also bring the private sector in for enhancing investments in the maritime sector.
“Our belief is that if it is successfully completed and managed, we will not only create employment opportunities, but also arrest capital flight as many vessels calling in Nigerian ports will now have a facility for dry docking instead of going elsewhere to do it.”
Beside generating employment and improving the nation’s economy, Akpobolokemi said that the new venture will be expected to enable cadets from the Maritime Academy of Nigerian (MAN), Oron, Akwa-Ibom to have an opportunity for practical training experience during their sea time.
