The Federal Government has pledged to implement actionable recommendations from the 18th International Maritime Seminar for Judges, saying an efficient and credible maritime justice system is essential to attracting investment, facilitating trade and unlocking Nigeria’s blue economy potential.

‎Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made the commitment in Abuja at the opening of the three-day seminar organised by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute and the Nigerian Maritime Law Association.

Akume said delays in resolving maritime disputes could negatively affect trade, investor confidence and the cost of goods. He disclosed that his office would support the implementation of resolutions from the seminar, particularly those requiring legislative intervention, executive action and inter-agency collaboration.

The SGF said recommendations requiring legislative amendments would be channelled through the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Justice, while issues involving the ratification of international conventions would receive executive attention. He stressed that the resolutions must translate into policy, legislation and institutional reforms.

Senator Akume also called for stronger collaboration among key maritime institutions, including the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NIMASA, the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Federal High Court. He said improved information sharing and regulatory alignment were necessary to enhance efficiency in the sector.

The SGF further commended the Nigerian Shippers’ Council for sustaining the International Maritime Seminar for Judges since 1995 and welcomed judicial officers from Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Kenya and Liberia. He expressed optimism that the seminar would strengthen regional cooperation, harmonise business laws and promote maritime trade across Africa.