The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has urged France to support Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.
According to a statement released by the minister’s media and communications adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, on Wednesday, Oyetola hosted French Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier in Abuja who was accompanied by Ms. Alice Ellenbogen, political counsellor at the French embassy in Nigeria. The minister highlighted Nigeria’s role as West and Central Africa’s maritime leader, emphasizing its contributions to safety and ocean governance.
Oyetola discussed Nigeria’s new National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, approved by the Federal Executive Council. The policy aims to sustainably develop marine resources, boost economic growth, and align with global ocean conservation goals. He also showcased Nigeria’s success in eliminating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea through initiatives like the Deep Blue Project.
The minister confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, from June 8 to 13, 2025, led by Oyetola on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. The conference, themed “Accelerating action for ocean sustainability,” will focus on marine ecosystem management and financing.
Fonbaustier commended Nigeria’s commitment and expressed France’s interest in deepening bilateral ties on marine sustainability. The meeting reflects Nigeria’s push for global maritime collaboration ahead of UNOC3 and the IMO Council election.
