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.