Oyetola Emphasizes Need for National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy as Nigeria takes Global Stage
Oru Leonard
In a significant move towards unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has emphasized the need for a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy. This policy is expected to chart a sustainable pathway for economic growth in various sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining, while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ validation session, Oyetola noted that a robust National Policy will address challenges in the sector, including environmental degradation and illegal activities such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. He emphasized that the policy will ensure that Nigeria’s marine resources are safeguarded for future generations.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s progress in maritime governance, including the ratification and domestication of international protocols and conventions. These measures have strengthened the country’s safety and security framework, resulting in a remarkable three-year period with zero incidents of piracy in Nigerian waters.
The validation workshop is a key step in shaping the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, which is designed to address Nigeria’s specific needs and aspirations while embracing sustainable development principles. The draft policy consists of nine parts and offers a comprehensive overview of Nigeria’s marine and blue economic endowments and their current state.
The development of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy is a significant step towards harnessing Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. With the support of stakeholders, the policy is expected to unlock the vast potential of Nigeria’s marine resources, drive economic growth, and ensure environmental sustainability.
Cover Photo Caption: Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, (FM M&BE) Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (4th left); Permanent Secretary, FM M&BE, Olufemi Oloruntola (3rd left); Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Moberola (2nd left); Managing Director, Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji (left); Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Akutah Pius Ukeyima, MON (right); Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture, FM M&BE, Wellington Omoragbon (2nd right); Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho (3rd right) and Director, Maritime Safety and Security, FM M&BE, Babatunde Bombata during a validation workshop on the development of the national policy on marine and Blue Economy in Lagos.
Source: MIMASA Media
