…As stakeholders validate National Blue Economy Policy
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing the transformative potential of its marine resources during a keynote address at the Technical Validation Workshop for the development of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
In his address, the Minister highlighted the immense opportunities offered by Nigeria’s vast marine environment, including its 853-kilometer coastline, extensive inland waterways, and exclusive economic zone.
He emphasized that the blue economy offers pathways to economic growth in fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining while balancing environmental sustainability.
However, Oyetola noted that realizing these benefits requires a comprehensive framework to tackle challenges such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, environmental degradation, and unsustainable practices.
The National Policy aims to address these issues by aligning with global standards and ensuring the conservation of marine resources for future generations.
“Through this policy, we aim to reposition Nigeria as a dominant player in the marine and blue economy, both regionally and globally,” Oyetola stated.
He acknowledged the strides Nigeria has made in maritime governance, citing a three-year record of zero piracy incidents in its waters. The Minister also emphasized ongoing efforts to attract private sector investment for port modernization, a key step in boosting the nation’s competitiveness.
The draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, a nine-part document, outlines Nigeria’s vision and aspirations for sustainable marine resource utilization. It addresses legal and institutional frameworks, maritime transport, fisheries, marine innovation, and cross-cutting issues such as safety and security.
The workshop brings together stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners, to refine the draft policy. Contributions from this workshop will help finalize a comprehensive roadmap aimed at job creation, private sector investment, and inclusive prosperity, particularly for youth and women.
In his closing remarks, the Minister urged participants to engage in open and constructive dialogue. “Your insights are vital for shaping a national policy that addresses critical issues and unlocks the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy,” he said.
The workshop marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable marine development, with the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy pledging continued collaboration to deliver impactful results.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Olufemi Michael Oloruntola, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable marine development during his opening remarks at the Stakeholders’ Engagement and Technical Validation Workshop.
Oloruntola lauded the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, for steering the ministry toward innovation and excellence. “It is under his guidance that this significant milestone has been achieved,” Oloruntola noted, emphasizing the minister’s strategic vision for the sector.
The workshop gathered key stakeholders and experts to refine and validate the draft policy aimed at addressing Nigeria’s specific needs in the marine and blue economy while adhering to sustainable development principles. Discussions centered on strategies to foster economic growth, create jobs, and ensure environmental sustainability.
“This workshop is a critical step in shaping a comprehensive policy framework that provides practical solutions and innovative strategies for the sector,” Oloruntola stated. He encouraged active participation, emphasizing the shared responsibility of stakeholders in shaping a policy that drives measurable progress.
The workshop also recognized the technical team and stakeholders for their efforts in bringing the draft policy to its current stage. Participants were urged to engage meaningfully to ensure the policy reflects collective insights and practical solutions.
The event marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s efforts to harness the potential of its marine and blue economy, aligning national priorities with global sustainability goals.