President Bola Tinubu said Nigeria must prioritize shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure to strengthen exports and create more jobs for citizens.
He highlighted that expanding export capacity is the next stage of his administration’s economic reforms.
Tinubu explained that the country’s achievement of its 2025 non-oil revenue target months ahead of schedule shows the success of ongoing reforms to reduce dependence on crude oil.
According to him, the economy has now stabilized, with speculation in foreign exchange eliminated. He stressed that the system is predictable, and businesses no longer need special connections at the Central Bank to access forex or import goods.
The President reaffirmed that the Renewed Hope Agenda will continue to focus on infrastructure renewal, improved healthcare, food sovereignty, and national security. He announced plans to set up agricultural mechanization centres across all regions to expand cultivation, increase harvests, and create employment opportunities.
Tinubu pledged to honor the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari by establishing a “Buhari House” and integrating more former CPC members into government.
Former Governor Tanko Al-Makura, speaking on behalf of the delegation, pledged continued loyalty and support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, praising him for giving Buhari a dignified state burial.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, also commended Tinubu’s inclusive style of governance.
Nigeria has long depended on crude oil for about 70 percent of government earnings and more than 90 percent of foreign exchange inflows. Successive governments promised diversification, but oil remained dominant until recent growth in the non-oil sector began to shift the balance.
The Federal Government recently approved a record ₦54.99 trillion budget for 2025, projecting ₦41 trillion in revenue and a ₦13 trillion deficit to be financed mainly through borrowing.
source: shipsandports.com.ng
