…Seeks private sector investment for port modernization
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola on Tuesday said that the development of national policy on marine and blue economy will tackle illegal fishing, environmental degradation and unsustainable practices in the nation’s waters.
Oyetola disclosed this the technical validation workshop on the development of the national policy on marine and blue economy in Lagos, said the policy will repositioning Nigeria as a dominant pfostering marine and blue economy both regionally and globally.
According to him, the policy is aimed at fostering sustainability, innovation, and inclusive prosperity in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He said these efforts are integral to ensuring that the sectors’ policies translate into tangible progress and measurable outcomes.
He saiid the blue economy is a transformative pathway for nations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
He explained that Nigeria, with over 853 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and a vast exclusive economic zone, the marine environment holds unparalleled opportunities, which range from fisheries and aquaculture to shipping, tourism, and renewable energy.
However, he said these opportunities come with challenges: unsustainable practices, environmental degradation, and illegal activities, such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
“A robust National Policy will ensure that we address these issues through a comprehensive framework that aligns with international best practices while safeguarding our marine resources for future generations.
“This validation workshop is a milestone in our efforts to elevate Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. It is a product of diligent and inclusive policymaking that underscores our Ministrys commitment to collaboration and precision.
The Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy has painstakingly developed strategies to guide the sustainable use of our marine resources.
“These efforts, supported by partnerships with the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and other stakeholders, include the finalization of policies on fisheries and aquaculture in collaboration with WorldFish. These critical contributions are vital inputs into the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy,” he said.
He said it is worth noting that Nigeria has achieved notable progress in maritime governance, including the ratification and domestication of international protocols and conventions, saying these measures have strengthened sector’s safety and security framework, resulting in a remarkable three-year period of zero incidence of piracy in the nation’s waters.
“Nonetheless, the recurring spate of boat mishaps underscores the pressing need for immediate action. This policy seeks to implement comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of all waterways. However, challenges such as the spate of boat mishaps demand urgent attention, and this policy aims to establish comprehensive measures to enhance safety across our waterways.
“As we develop this policy, the Ministry remains committed to repositioning Nigeria as a dominant player in the marine and blue economy both regionally and globally. We are also pursuing Nigerias candidacy for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which underscores our determination to strengthen our voice in global maritime governance,” he pointed out.
He said the goal today and in the coming days is to critically evaluate the policy, ensuring that it addresses the needs of all stakeholders, incorporates global standards, and positions Nigeria as a regional leader in the blue economy.
“As we deliberate, let us embrace open and constructive dialogue. Your insights and expertise are vital for shaping a national policy that addresses critical issues such as safety, security, and sustainability in Nigerias marine and blue economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olufemi Oloruntola, said that this validation workshop is a key step in shaping the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, a framework designed to address Nigerias specific needs and aspirations while embracing sustainable development principles.
According to him, it provides an opportunity for stakeholders to review, refine, and enrich the draft Policy through a participatory and inclusive approach.
“The discussions here will ensure that the final document reflects practical solutions and innovative strategies, paving the way for a marine and blue economy that supports economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
“I commend the technical team and all stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to bring us to this stage. Your dedication and expertise are crucial, and I am confident that the outcomes of this workshop will reflect the collective efforts and insights brought to the table.
“I encourage all participants to engage actively and contribute meaningfully to the deliberations. This is a shared responsibility, and your insights are critical in ensuring that the Policy is not only comprehensive but also capable of driving measurable progress in the sector,” he added.
The Sun Nigeria
