A plea for a blueprint in the marine and blue economy has come from Dr. Kayode Farinto, a maritime expert. He has called on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, to provide a viable plan for the industry.
Farinto, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Tuesday, emphasized the need for the minister to engage with industry technocrats in order to achieve this blueprint.
He, the former acting National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, believes that the industry would benefit significantly from having a clear blueprint, as it would provide focus and facilitate the creation of employment opportunities for the country’s youth, as well as generate revenue for the Federal Government.
Farinto emphasized the potential for harnessing untapped underwater resources with the implementation of the blueprint.
Expressing regret over the underutilization of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Farinto highlighted the fact that the original intentions behind its establishment seem to have been lost.
He stressed that a well-defined blueprint would enable the government to address challenges within the sector and fully harness its potential.
According to Farinto, stakeholders in the maritime sector face various challenges, with one of the key issues being the provision of forex for port operations.
He commended the current administration of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for addressing the issue of opening Form M, making it accessible to all. However, other issues, such as the failing port call-up system, are leading to corruption and increased costs for cargo clearance, requiring decisive government intervention in the near future.
Farinto noted the disparities in the condition of port access roads, emphasizing the need for the Minister of Works to address the deteriorating access roads in the eastern region to enhance port productivity.
He also emphasized the importance of addressing exportation issues to strengthen the naira, suggesting that encouraging exporters to transport cargo by rail could minimize extortion, illegal taxes, and turnaround time for cargo transportation.
Finally, Farinto urged policymakers to explore opportunities within the maritime sector to boost government revenue during this administration.
NAN
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