Nigerian maritime professionals and startups are seeking international investment and technology partnerships following their participation in the 2026 Asia-Pacific Summit in Singapore, organised through a partnership between the Nigerian Institute of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects and Plug and Play.
The engagement provided Nigerian stakeholders with access to international investors, technology experts and businesses, with discussions focused on opportunities to expand the country's blue economy and strengthen its maritime industry.
NIMENA National Chairman, Engr. Dr Sylvanus Eferebo, said the partnership was designed to connect industry players, venture capitalists, startups and other stakeholders whose contributions were vital to developing the maritime sector.
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Speaking during an interview at the summit, Eferebo said the institute was committed to bridging the gap between government, academia and industry to establish a common development agenda for the blue economy.
He stressed that stronger collaboration among the three sectors would help turn research, innovative ideas and technical expertise into practical solutions for Nigeria's maritime and energy industries.
According to him, bringing policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, investors and professionals together would promote knowledge exchange, technology transfer and investment in the sector.
The summit also featured startups from the 2026 cohort working on solutions in healthcare, identity management, logistics, agriculture and technology.
Their participation offered Nigerian industry stakeholders opportunities to assess emerging technologies, establish business connections and explore partnerships with international investors and technology-driven companies.
The engagement was particularly relevant to Nigerian startups seeking to expand beyond the domestic market, providing access to a wider network of investors, industry experts and potential business partners.
The Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, who attended the event, commended NIMENA for its efforts to project the country positively on the international stage.
The ambassador described the institute's participation as an important contribution to strengthening Nigeria's global presence and fostering collaboration between local professionals and international industry players.
The partnership with Plug and Play is expected to widen NIMENA's engagement with international markets and create opportunities for Nigerian maritime professionals and emerging businesses to participate more actively in the global technology and investment ecosystem.
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