The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched the Blue Economy Accelerator Programme (BEAP), a new initiative aimed at supporting technology-driven businesses and entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions for Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The programme forms part of the agency’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s blue economy by encouraging innovation, improving sustainability and creating commercially viable businesses capable of addressing long-standing challenges across the marine ecosystem.
Speaking at the launch, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the accelerator underscores the agency’s commitment to unlocking opportunities within Nigeria’s maritime industry through innovation and entrepreneurship. He noted that the programme is designed to empower startups, young innovators and technology-focused enterprises with the tools required to develop scalable solutions for the sector.
Applications are open to Nigerian entrepreneurs both within the country and in the diaspora. According to NIMASA, the first phase of the accelerator is targeting at least 150 quality applications from startups developing products and services across key segments of the blue economy.
Priority areas include marine waste management and circular economy solutions, sustainable aquaculture and fisheries, ocean renewable energy, marine biotechnology, green shipping technologies, vessel decarbonisation, smart port systems, autonomous marine vehicles, biofouling prevention technologies, coastal resilience and nature-based coastal protection.
Selected participants will receive structured business development support, technical advisory services, mentorship from maritime and industry experts, and opportunities to engage with investors and strategic partners. The agency said the programme is intended to help innovators transform early-stage ideas into commercially sustainable ventures capable of attracting investment and creating jobs.
Industry analysts say the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s growing focus on expanding economic activities beyond oil by leveraging its extensive coastline, inland waterways and maritime assets. The blue economy encompasses sectors such as shipping, fisheries, marine tourism, offshore renewable energy and ocean-related technology, all of which are increasingly recognised as important drivers of sustainable economic growth.
Beyond supporting startups, the accelerator is expected to encourage private-sector participation in maritime innovation while promoting environmentally sustainable practices across the industry. It also reflects a growing recognition that digital technologies and climate-focused solutions will play a central role in improving operational efficiency, reducing emissions and strengthening the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
NIMASA has not yet announced the successful applicants for the inaugural cohort. With applications now open, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the programme translates innovative ideas into commercially successful businesses capable of advancing Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading blue economy hub in Africa.
