Abdussamad Dasuki, the Chairman of the House Committee on Shipping Services, shared this target during a special performance retreat organized by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council in Lagos on Thursday. The retreat, themed 'Strengthening Economic Regulation of the Marine and Blue Economy,' provided a platform for discussing ways to enhance the sector's economic regulation.

During the event, Dasuki explained that the current contribution of the sector is less than one percent, falling short of the expected 20 percent. He pledged to undertake all necessary measures to bring about the required changes, stating, "everything that needed to be done to change the narrative would be done accordingly."

 “As the chairman overseeing NSC, we are going to be partners in progress to do all that is expected from you as the regulator of this important sector. On that note, I would highlight to you that even before the new executive secretary resumed office, I had championed having important backup law regulating this important agency.

“We are going to fast-track that law and make sure you have legal backing to do what is expected of you. Part of what we are to discuss is to know how to strengthen economic regulation of the Marine and Blue Economy. We should have a Nigerian Shipping Commission Council,” he added.

In his Opening remarks, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NSC, Akutah Ukeyima, said that the council had long been at the forefront of catalysing innovation, championing progress, and navigating the dynamic waters of global trade.

“As we gather here today, we are embarking on a collective endeavour that holds profound significance for the future of our nation’s economic landscape.

“Today’s retreat marks not just a gathering of minds but a strategic convergence of wisdom, expertise, and foresight. It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to shaping a future where the marine and blue economy sector becomes a beacon of sustainable development and prosperity,” he said.

According to him, the focus of the council on economic regulation underscores a profound understanding that effective governance, equitable practices, and strategic policies serve as the bedrock for fostering a thriving blue economy.