This mixed-methods study investigates the systemic policy and political factors impeding the performance of Nigeria’s maritime industry. Combining a quantitative survey of 400 questionnaires to get key insights into the stakeholders’ perceptions of policy, politics, and efficiency at the four selected Nigerian ports: Onne, Warri, Ibaka, and Calabar. Quantitative findings reveal a widespread perception that political interference and regulatory fragmentation are the most significant barriers to port development. A statistical comparison across the four ports highlights that the perception of political interference is most acute at Warri Port. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the ports (F(3,396)=28.71,p<0.001). These findings are corroborated by qualitative data, which identifies a critical disconnect between national policy and its practical application, with policies like the Cabotage Act being subverted by a lack of enforcement and the granting of waivers. The key finding is that the underdevelopment of Nigeria’s maritime sector is not merely a matter of operational inefficiency but is fundamentally a result of deep-seated political issues. Thematic analysis reveals deliberate acts of “political neglect” and “sabotage,” particularly at ports like Warri and Ibaka, aimed at protecting existing monopolies and hindering decentralized development. It was concluded that for Nigeria to realize its immense maritime potential, a fundamental overhaul of its governance structures is required to address pervasive political influence and regulatory chaos.