Abstract

The Cabotage Law came into force in April, 2004 (Cabotage Act, 2003) aimed at reserving the costal shipping for Nigeria nationals. In essence, the system of maintaining domestic shipping industry is being regulated by the Cabotage Law. This involves the merchant fleet, and the protection of the environment and bio-diversity. The study is of the view that if the Cabotage Law is properly implemented; Nigeria will be able to maintain jobs and skills in an industry that is vital to its future. Lack of knowledge about the maritime sector could be the basis for the very poor response that it has generated from investing public. The oceans are as old as the maritime trade and dates back to the beginning of recorded time. Nigeria can only negate the development of its maritime potentials at its own peril especially taken into consideration here expensive maritime resource.

Key words: Cabotage, economy, maritime, transportation and shipping.