Nigeria Moves to Unlock Maritime Potential with New Blue Economy Policy … Advances with Final Validation Workshop
Oru Leonard
Abuja, Nigeria – The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has reiterated the Nigerian government’s commitment to developing a robust policy framework to unlock the vast potential of the country’s marine resources.
Speaking at the final technical validation workshop on the development of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy in Abuja, Minister Oyetola emphasized the importance of a well-rounded and inclusive policy framework in driving maritime development.
The workshop, which brought together industry experts, academics, and researchers, aimed to refine priorities and solidify a framework for advancing the maritime sector over the next few years.
Minister Oyetola commended stakeholders for their support and contributions to shaping the policy, emphasizing that the outcomes of the workshop would play a key role in guiding the sector’s growth.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Marine Safety, Education, and Administration, Mrs. Khadija Bukar-Abba, revealed ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen the sector. She noted key bills under consideration, including the NIMASA Amendment Bill 2024, the Cabotage Amendment Bill 2024, the Merchant Shipping Review and Re-enactment Bill 2024, and the Maritime Zones Bill 2024.
In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary Olufemi Michael Oloruntola emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to creating a strategic roadmap for the sector. “This Policy will foster investment, drive innovation, and create new opportunities for Nigerians, while protecting the fragile ecosystems that support our coastal and marine life.”
He disclosed that the workshop follows months of collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the Policy reflects the nation’s aspirations. With the blue economy poised to drive economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to benefit from its vast marine resources.
He noted that the outcomes of the workshop will provide a strong foundation for a Policy that will propel the growth of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
In her remarks, the Director, Planning, Research, and Statistics, emphasized the importance of unlocking the immense potential of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy for sustainable development and national prosperity.
“The workshop aimed to ensure the policy is comprehensive, aligns with international best practices, and prioritizes sustainability and inclusivity. Stakeholders from various sectors, including MDAs, the legislature, private sector, academia, civil society, and local communities, contributed to shaping the policy framework”, she said
Also speaking, elated the Beyalsa State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Faith Izibenua Ziba-Godwin, disclosed that being the first to create a Ministry dedicated to the Marine and Blue Economy, her state is eager to see the policy framework come through soon.
The outcome of the workshop will lay the foundation for a vibrant marine and blue economy that contributes to Nigeria’s growth and positions the country as a leading player on the global stage.
The National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy is expected to position Nigeria as a leader in the global blue economy, prioritizing sustainability and economic growth.
