Blue Economy
ATBOWATON President Calls for Local Boatbuilding Drive to Save Billions and Boost Jobs
The National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters (ATBOWATON), Alhaji Tarzan Balogun, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s continued dependence on imported boats, warning that the country is losing billions of naira and missing out on key employment opportunities.
In a recent interview in Abeokuta, Alhaji Balogun stressed that the high cost of importing vessels—often unsuited for Nigeria’s challenging inland waterways—could be redirected to developing a robust local boatbuilding industry. He noted that Nigeria’s waterways, often riddled with rocky channels and underwater wrecks, are better navigated with boats specifically designed for the local terrain.
“We are losing so much. The cost of importing just one boat is enough to build three or four right here in Nigeria,” he said. “Why are we not empowering our local builders, training our people, and growing our economy?”
Balogun further revealed that imported boats are often not equipped with essential tools like depth sounders and GPS, leaving local operators vulnerable to mishaps. He noted that some boat accidents attributed to foreign-made vessels were due to environmental challenges and neglect, not necessarily poor construction—underscoring the need for boats adapted to Nigeria’s waterways.
Despite interest from foreign investors in South Africa and Australia to partner with Nigeria’s boatbuilding sector, Balogun said inconsistent policies and a lack of continuity in leadership have discouraged long-term investment.
He urged the Federal Government to take the lead in standardizing boat designs, supporting local manufacturers, and creating a favorable policy environment to unlock the full potential of the maritime sector.
While commending the current efforts of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, Balogun warned that recent progress could be reversed if not backed by sustained political will and policy stability.
“With deliberate action, Nigeria can build a self-reliant maritime economy, create thousands of jobs, and ensure safe, efficient water transport,” he concluded.