The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, has opened the final technical validation workshop for Nigeria’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
The event, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel on December 11–12, 2024, is part of ongoing efforts to solidify Nigeria’s framework for sustainable maritime development.
Speaking at the event through the Permanent secretary of the federal ministry of Marine and Blue Economy Olufemi Michael Oloruntola, Minister Oyetola commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visionary leadership in establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
He emphasized that the creation of the ministry aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and Africa’s Agenda 2063, which seek to unlock the potential of marine resources and drive economic growth beyond land-based development.
“This session marks the culmination of our consultative engagements with stakeholders to develop an inclusive and sustainable policy framework,” Oyetola stated.
He urged participants, including industry experts, academics, and researchers, to actively contribute insights to refine the policy.
Building on the outcomes of the initial workshop held in Lagos in November, the Abuja session aims to finalize priorities and strategies for advancing Nigeria’s blue economy.
The Minister highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain and the need for a unified approach to position the country as a global leader in the sector.
The workshop has brought together a diverse range of stakeholders to foster collaboration and innovation in marine governance.
Oyetola also praised the efforts of the technical committee, ministry officials, and supporting agencies in shaping the draft policy.
“We owe our country the responsibility to develop a maritime policy that will endure for generations. This is a crucial step in shaping the future of the blue economy,” the Minister said as he declared the workshop open.
