MINISTER ASSURES OF URGENCY TO DELIVER NIGERIA’S NATIONAL POLICY ON MARINE, BLUE ECONOMY 28-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Federal Government is close to transforming the nation’s Marine and Blue Economy into a global brand that significantly contributes to the national economy, improves maritime security, and provides sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, gave the assurance at the Stakeholders’ Engagement and Technical Validation Workshop on the development of the National Policy on Marine & Blue Economy, held at Radisson Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Directors, technical officers, and heads of agencies and parastatals under the ministry, as well as key private sector stakeholders in the industry, attended the event.
In a Keynote address, Oyetola explained that the national policy aims to establish a sustainable framework that fosters economic growth through responsible
management of maritime and blue resources.
According to him, the policy will ensure that sector activities align with global best practices, contribute to Nigeria’s development objectives, and guarantee sustainable security within the country’s maritime domain.
“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 Ministry’s 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 & Blue Economy.
“It is worth noting that Nigeria has achieved notable progress in maritime governance, including the ratification and domestication of international protocols and conventions. These measures have strengthened our safety and security framework, resulting in a remarkable three-year period of zero incidence of piracy in our 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 boat mishaps demand urgent attention, and this policy aims to establish comprehensive measures to enhance safety across our waterways.”
The Honourable Minister stated further that the ministry has intensified consultations with stakeholders to achieve a comprehensive policy.
He highlighted Nigeria’s vast coastline and diverse marine resources, which hold significant potential in various sectors, believing that the National Policy would provide a framework for sustainable management and administration of ocean resources, benefiting the nation and its citizens.
His words, “The blue economy is a transformative pathway for nations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. For Nigeria, with over 853 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and a vast exclusive economic zone, the marine environment holds unparalleled opportunities. These range from fisheries and aquaculture to shipping, tourism, and renewable energy.
“However, 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.
“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 Nigeria’s candidacy for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which underscores our determination to strengthen our voice in global maritime governance.
“Additionally, we are actively seeking private sector investment for port modernization, which is critical for boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness and attracting sustainable funding for the sector. These efforts are integral to ensuring that our policies translate into tangible progress and measurable outcomes.
“I am pleased to acknowledge the efforts that have brought us to this stage. The initial consultations and technical drafting processes have produced a draft policy that is both inclusive and forward-looking. This validation workshop represents the culmination of those efforts.
“Our 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 Nigeria’s marine and blue economy he urged.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olufemi Michael Oloruntola commended the Minister’s efforts in developing the sector, anticipating that the national policy, once finalized, will reposition the country as a regional leader in maritime governance.
Mr. Oloruntola also expressed confidence that it will support the President’s economic diversification initiatives and efforts to create a prosperous economic future.
He said, “It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this important Stakeholders’ Engagement and Technical Validation Workshop. Your presence here today underscores the collective commitment to advancing Nigeria’s marine & blue economy sector, and I am truly grateful for the effort you have made to be here.
“I would like to specially acknowledge the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON. His strategic leadership and unwavering commitment have steered this ministry toward excellence, fostering an environment where transformative ideas and initiatives are brought to life. It is under his guidance that this significant milestone has been achieved. Your Excellency, we are honoured to be part of this progressive journey.
“This validation workshop is a key step in shaping the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, a framework designed to address Nigeria’s specific needs and aspirations while embracing sustainable development principles. It allows 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,” he added.
The policy aims to provide a roadmap for strong sector governance, accelerated legislative reforms, and regulated fishing activities within the country’s Marine and Blue economy.
It also seeks to address the dominance of foreign-owned ships in the country’s waters.
The Lagos event will be followed by an Executive Validated Workshop in Abuja between 11th and 12th December to be attended by the commissioners, permanent secretaries, heads of parastatals and organisations under the ministry.