The partnership was sealed through the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of the recently concluded Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The agreement is expected to enhance collaboration in critical areas of port development, operational efficiency, capacity building and technology-driven maritime solutions.
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, led the Nigerian delegation to the signing ceremony, while the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Mr Mohamed Hassan, led the company’s management team. The engagement underscored the growing strategic alignment between both parties in advancing sustainable maritime and blue economy initiatives.
The agreement, which had been under consideration for more than two decades, forms part of wider trade and investment engagements between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates. Its conclusion signals a renewed commitment by both countries to deepen cooperation in the maritime sector and unlock opportunities within the blue economy value chain.
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, was also present, reinforcing the regulatory and institutional support for the partnership.
Stakeholders say the MoU is expected to facilitate knowledge transfer, attract foreign investment, improve port competitiveness and position Nigeria as a stronger maritime hub in the West and Central African region.