The Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), has highlighted the complex issue of vessel acquisition and lack of cargo access has challenges impacting the shipping industry in Nigeria. Sonny Eja, the association’s newly appointed President, discussed these issues during the weekend ceremony to swear in the new SOAN executive members. Sonny Eja emphasized his commitment to ensuring that all members receive benefits and their collective interests are protected. Concentration will also be on advocating for policies and collaborating with government agencies to develop and implement policies that impact the shipping sector and indigenous ship owners.
Eja conveyed his gratitude and humility at serving as the head of the Ship Owners Association of Nigeria. He thanked members for their trust in him and his team to lead the association for the next two years. Founded in 2015, SOAN is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the interests of Nigerian Shipowners and operators. The group is made up of more than 50 companies that own ships. These companies collectively have a fleet of more than 150 vessels, including MPSVs, PSVs, AHTS, FSIVs, Tugs, Tankers, Barges, Crew boats, security vessels, and more.
SOAN has played an active part in shaping government policies.
Involvement of the association in the maritime industry is crucial, spanning across sectors such as oil and gas, dry bulk, and wet cargo shipping. Throughout its existence, SOAN has played an active part in shaping government policies, supporting the growth of seafarers, and building partnerships on a global scale within the industry. Eja expressed their recognition of the obstacles and possibilities that come with taking on the role of presidency. As a team, we need to work together to overcome the challenges presented by a constantly changing environment in the shipping industry, he said. This includes tackling various obstacles like acquiring ships and securing cargo opportunities.
Additionally, SOAN is strategically positioned to take advantage of the growing importance of the maritime industry over oil in the government’s focus, as evidenced by the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Ever since taking office, the new administration has actively participated in important discussions with key players in various industries. This includes meetings with The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, as well as senior leaders from Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Ship owners essential to driving growth in the maritime sector.
Productive discussions have taken place with both the executives of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Shipping Ltd and the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS). Additionally, we were present at the 2023 Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit (CTIS) hosted in London. Eja said his administration is committed to ensuring that everyone receives benefits and our shared interests are safeguarded. Additionally, he assures dedicated attention to advocating for policies and collaborating with government agencies to shape and enact policies that impact the shipping industry and local ship owners.
Nigeria’s maritime and Blue Economy is estimated to have a value ranging from $296 billion to $300 billion. It has the potential to create around 50 million jobs and these figures are expected to increase annually. The development of the Blue Economy could play a crucial role in transforming the nation’s economy, with ship owners being essential to driving growth in the maritime sector. Optimizing Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy can lead to various advantages such as increased employment opportunities, improved access to food, sustainable energy sources, equitable international trade, and a steady foreign exchange rate.
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Nevertheless, both the Ship Owners Association of Nigeria and all other Nigerian ship owners require resolutions involving the distribution of the Cabotage Vessel Finance Fund (CVFF), as well as mutually advantageous partnerships with a range of industry stakeholders such as NIMASA, NNPCL, Dangote Group, The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), NMDPRA, NCDMB, NUIMS, and more. The SOAN president further pledged enhanced dedication to creating an inclusive leadership journey where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute.
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