300 BUSINESS DISPUTES SETTLED THROUGH ADR

The Federal Government has resolved nearly 300 commercial disputes through Alternative Dispute Resolution in the last three years, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said.

Oyetola disclosed this while presenting the ministry’s three-year scorecard, highlighting the progress recorded in Nigeria’s maritime sector under the current administration.

He said the use of ADR had helped resolve commercial disagreements without lengthy court processes, providing businesses with a faster avenue for settling disputes.

The minister also highlighted improvements recorded in Nigeria’s ports, noting that the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence ranked Tin Can Island Port 10th and Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, 12th among the world’s 20 most improved container ports between 2020 and 2025.

Oyetola said the government had also taken steps to reduce congestion around the Apapa port environment through the electronic truck call-up system, dedicated holding bays and increased use of inland barges.

He added that progress had been recorded in maritime security, with Nigeria maintaining zero piracy in its territorial waters for four consecutive years.

According to the minister, the improved security environment has helped eliminate piracy-related surcharges imposed on vessels calling at Nigerian ports.

Oyetola said the government would continue implementing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, attracting investment and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a competitive maritime hub.