Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has reiterated its determination to strengthen accountability and operational discipline across agencies in the sector.

Permanent Secretary Fatima Mahmood made the position known while declaring open the sixth peer-review conference for Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units operating under the ministry. The event, held in Lagos, was described as an important opportunity for institutional reflection, collaboration and reform.

The statement announcing the development was issued through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, which coordinated communication around the gathering.

Mahmood, represented at the conference by a senior ministry official, stressed that peer-review exercises help agencies evaluate their processes, share lessons, and strengthen anti-corruption safeguards.

In his remarks, the Director-General of NIMASA, speaking through an executive representative, welcomed participants and emphasised the conference theme, which focuses on embedding ethical governance into public institutions. He noted that transparency frameworks must be institutionalised through improved systems, stronger internal oversight and the strategic use of technology to minimise leakages and improve service delivery.

Representatives of the anti-corruption community also endorsed the initiative. Officials from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission commended agencies under the ministry for adopting peer-review mechanisms, describing them as vital tools for preventing misconduct and strengthening public trust.