Lagos, Nigeria — September 18, 2025.
The Sea Empowerment and Research Centre Ltd/Gte (SEREC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) to enhance collaboration and promote sustainable barge operations across Nigeria.
The agreement, signed in Lagos, establishes a strategic framework for joint research, policy development, and capacity building to address key challenges within Nigeria’s maritime logistics and inland waterway transport system.
Under the partnership, SEREC will conduct research and analysis to identify the root causes of operational inefficiencies, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory challenges affecting barge operators. The findings will inform evidence-based policy recommendations aimed at improving efficiency, environmental sustainability, and competitiveness within the sector.
BOAN, on its part, will spearhead capacity-building initiatives for its members, providing training and development programs that enhance professional standards, safety compliance, and operational excellence.
This collaboration aligns with the United Nations Global Compact’s mission to advance sustainable industrialization, decent work, and economic growth (SDG 8 & SDG 9) by fostering partnerships between research institutions and private sector stakeholders.
By focusing on knowledge sharing, innovation, and human capital development, the initiative supports Nigeria’s efforts to modernize its maritime economy and strengthen its contribution to regional trade and sustainable infrastructure development.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to creating a resilient and efficient barge industry that contributes to Nigeria’s blue economy,” said a representative from SEREC.
“Through data-driven research and stakeholder collaboration, we aim to unlock new opportunities for sustainable maritime growth.”
The MOU also emphasizes synergy among government agencies, industry associations, and private sector operators, ensuring a multi-stakeholder approach to maritime sector reform and empowerment.