The national vice president of Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Emi Membere-Otaji has noted that the Niger Delta’s vast human and logistical resources is a solution to Nigeria’s maritime challenges, with over 70% of Nigeria’s coastline and 68 years of oil exploration experience, the region is well-equipped to lead in maritime innovation.

He said this at the Energy Maritime Reporters (EMR) seminar and award event in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

Membere-Otaji noted the development of locally-made, flat-bottomed tugboats as an example of Niger Delta ingenuity. These tugboats have been used to ease Apapa Port’s congestion by transporting containers to locations accessible by trucks.

“The flat-bottomed barges, designed for riverine operations in the Niger Delta, offer a practical solution to Lagos’ port traffic,”

Reflecting on the impact of these regional solutions, he shared his presentation to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) on implementing this approach at Apapa.

“Now, Marine has several of these tugboats, all originally brought from Port Harcourt,” he added.

Membere-Otaji also praised the development of local maritime education, applauding institutions like Charkin Maritime Academy and the Marine Engineering Department at Rivers State University (RSU).

He expressed pride in his ongoing support for the best graduating Marine Engineering student at RSU through his foundation and encouraged recognition for these regional assets, which continue to foster innovative solutions in the maritime sector.