Cabotage Act, Catalyst For Maritime Industry

Vice President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, has said that the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act of 2003, popularly known as the Cabotage Act, which makes it obligatory for vessels plying the nation’s territorial waters be manned by Nigerians is a catalyst for the growth and development of the Nigerian maritime industry.

Edodo-Emore, however, lamented that the country’s maritime industry has not witnessed any significant growth since the implementation of the act due to shortage of skilled maritime personnel who are Nigerians.

The WISTA – Nigeria Vice President added that the country will benefit from the act if government and the private sector can invest in training institutions across the country.