The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has described the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy as an inclusive framework that will enhance maritime governance.
Oyetola added that the policy will ultimately establish the sector as a key driver of national prosperity in line with Africa’s Agenda 2063.
The Head of Press & Public Relations at the marine ministry, Muhammad Zakaria, said in a statement that Oyetola disclosed this at the second and final leg of the Executive Technical Validation Workshop of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy in Abuja.
He noted that the series of validation workshops and engagements in the last few months are aimed, “at redefining and producing a formidable framework that will serve as a blueprint to advance Nigeria’s maritime sector.”
Oyetola acknowledged the ministry’s vision for the sector, hence the assemblage of professionals ranging from industry experts to academics and researchers.
“This affirms and further reflects the ministry’s dedication and commitment to the growth and development of the sector,” Oyetola said.
Acknowledging the maritime domain as a crucial pillar of Nigeria’s future economy, Oyetola harped on the importance of addressing the bond between the marine and blue economy sectors with economic growth.
He also observed that an inclusive maritime policy places Nigeria as a leader in the global blue economy.
“This engagement aims to restore our priorities and solidify a framework for advancing the maritime sector over the next few years,” Oyetola said.
According to him, a key factor in driving maritime development is the establishment of a strong policy framework.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oloruntola Olufemi, said the final and executive validation workshop was to harp on the gains and achievements of the previous engagement.
Oloruntola further stated that the marine industry is fast gaining economic relevance and changing the fortunes of many nations on a global scale.
“This workshop is an opportunity to consolidate those efforts and finalize a framework that will guide the sustainable growth of the Blue Economy in Nigeria. Over the past few months, we have witnessed the growing significance of the marine sector in global discourse.
“As we face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, this policy represents a forward-thinking approach to harnessing the immense potential of our blue economy,” he said.