New marine policy will create sustainable prosperity for Nigeria — Oyetola
By Seun Ibiyemi
As the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the country’s first-ever National Marine and Blue Economy Policy, Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola (CON), expressed strong optimism that the policy will form the cornerstone of sustainable national prosperity.
In a statement released by the Media and Communications Adviser to the Honourable Minister, Dr Bolaji Akinola, the approval was described as a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s economic and environmental development.
Calling the policy a forward-thinking framework for national advancement, Oyetola welcomed the FEC’s decision as both timely and transformative.
He stated that the policy will serve as a strategic roadmap for the marine and blue economy sector over the next decade, positioning Nigeria to fully tap into the value of its oceans, seas, rivers, and inland waterways.
According to the Minister, the document goes beyond providing policy direction; it outlines a long-term implementation plan that integrates environmental stewardship with inclusive economic growth.
“This is a defining moment for our nation,” Oyetola remarked shortly after the policy’s approval. “The Federal Executive Council’s support for this policy marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s relationship with its marine and aquatic resources. This is more than a policy document. It is a bold statement of intent.”
He noted that the policy is designed to function as a dynamic framework, capable of adapting to global developments, domestic challenges, and sector-specific innovations.
Oyetola explained that the policy was crafted through an extensive and inclusive process, involving thorough consultations with key stakeholders from across the country.
He pointed to the value of this collaborative approach, stating that it strengthens both the credibility and the practicality of the final policy document.
“This is not a top-down initiative. It emerged from patient dialogue, expert input, and consensus among stakeholders. That’s what gives us confidence in its capacity to deliver,” he said.
The Minister observed that Nigeria’s coastal and marine assets, which include 853 kilometres of coastline and extensive inland waterways, have remained largely underexploited for decades.
With the new policy now in place, he said, the country finally has a unified plan to turn these natural assets into engines of economic diversification, employment generation, and environmental sustainability.
“We now have a policy that articulates our ambitions and equips us with the tools to realise them. From maritime commerce and aquaculture to marine tourism and clean ocean energy, this policy outlines tangible avenues for national development,” Oyetola stated.
He said the policy sets out clear and actionable guidelines for both public and private sector actors to align their operations with Nigeria’s marine and blue economy objectives. It includes a built-in monitoring and evaluation mechanism to ensure progress is measurable and transparent over the policy’s ten-year implementation period.
Oyetola affirmed that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is fully prepared to lead the rollout phase with both diligence and integrity. Crucially, the Minister drew attention to the essential role of private sector participation in achieving the policy’s aims.
“Private sector investment is fundamental to the successful execution of the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy,” Oyetola said.
“We urge domestic companies and international partners to channel investment into initiatives that contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. Additionally, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) will be central to harnessing the technical know-how and financial resources necessary to unlock the sector’s full potential.”
The Minister added that the policy is closely aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, climate resilience, and social equity.
“This policy embodies Mr President’s vision of a revitalised Nigeria — one that derives strength from its natural wealth while safeguarding the environment for the generations to come,” he said.
Minister Oyetola reiterated his dedication to translating the policy into meaningful gains for livelihoods, national income, and ecological health.
“It is time to turn the tide,” he said. “The ocean is not just a boundary; it is our future. And with this policy, we are prepared to steer that future with determination, foresight, and collective resolve.”
