The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for increased investments in surveillance systems, enhanced maritime law enforcement, and improvements in aquaculture, fishing ports, as well as efforts to combat illegal and unregulated fishing activities.
A statement released on Wednesday by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Anastasia Ogbonna, highlighted the vast potential of the marine and blue economy. It underscored its ability to support economic growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Oyetola noted that resources should be directed towards strengthening Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“There is also a need to promote oceanographic research, stock assessment, renewable marine energy, and climate resilience technologies, which should be top priorities for the agencies,” he said.
He also urged agencies within the Ministry to align their 2025 budget proposals to foster significant and impactful development in the marine and blue economy.
The minister emphasised the importance of adhering to the pillars of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and the 2021-2025 National Development Plan.
During a session with Ministry agencies to review their budget proposals, Oyetola expressed optimism that the proposed budgets would contribute to consolidating Nigeria’s efforts to unlock the potential of its marine and blue economy.
“We are tasked with ensuring that every naira allocated delivers a measurable impact,” Oyetola stated.
He urged the agencies to demonstrate transparency, fiscal prudence, and strategic prioritisation.
“I hope that the 2025 budget will not only address the immediate needs of this Ministry and its agencies, but also serve as a catalyst for sustainable marine resource management and long-term national economic growth,” he added.
Speaking on the draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, the minister highlighted its role as more than just a document.
“This policy embodies our commitment to international best practices and sustainable development goals, particularly SDG 14, which emphasises the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources,” Oyetola noted.
The heads of the agencies in attendance included representatives from the Nigeria Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, National Inland Waterways, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, and others.
