From Anthony Nwachukwu, Lagos
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has emphasised that a national policy on marine and blue economy is essential for the development of the Nigerian maritime sector.
Oyetola stated this in Lagos Tuesday while declaring open a stakeholder validation session aimed at developing the nation’s policy on marine and blue economy.
He told stakeholders, who included heads of all the maritime agencies in the ministry, as well as private sector participants that the policy will create a sustainable pathway for economic growth in fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism and seabed mining, and ensure environmental sustainability.
The minister further noted the need for a robust national policy to address challenges in the sector, including environmental degradation and negative activities such as illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
According to him, “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.
“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 with zero incidents of piracy in our waters.”
Nonetheless, he said “the recurring boat mishaps underscore the pressing need for immediate action.” Therefore, “this policy seeks to implement comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of all waterways. Challenges such as the recent spate of boat mishaps demand urgent attention.
“Consequently, this policy aims to establish comprehensive measures that will 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 Nigeria’s candidacy for election to Category C of the International Maritime Organisation, which underscores our determination to strengthen our voice in global maritime governance.”
In his welcome address earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olufemi Oloruntola, said the validation workshop was 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 provides an opportunity for stakeholders to review, refine and enrich the draft policy through a participatory and inclusive approach,” he said.
