The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has emphasized the importance of implementing the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy to drive economic growth and create job opportunities for millions of Nigerians. Speaking at a three-day stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja, Oyetola outlined the government’s vision to transform the blue economy sector into a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP through the establishment of numerous small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade.
Oyetola stressed the need for sustainable use of ocean resources and urged stakeholders to ensure that the drafted policy aligns with the nation’s priorities. He encouraged private sector participation, noting the government’s initiatives aimed at promoting business in the marine and blue economy sectors.
He praised the international collaboration, particularly from the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and Norway, for supporting Nigeria’s blue economy initiative.
The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its vast marine and aquatic resources, which would lead to increased blue food production, job creation, and climate-resilient coastal communities. This policy will serve as a roadmap for sustainable development, ensuring prosperity and security for future generations.
Additionally, Oyetola highlighted the recent transfer of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department to the Ministry, reinforcing Nigeria’s focus on the blue economy. He called for strategic collaboration and public-private partnerships to unlock the full potential of sectors such as fisheries, tourism, marine transport, renewable energy, and maritime security.
