How Blue Economy Will Transform Nigeria – Oyetola
……Calls for Sustained Collaboration
By Kabir Akintayo
Nigeria is on the cusp of a blue economic transformation, according to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who concluded a three-day national workshop on the development of the National Blue Economy Strategy in Abuja.
Speaking to stakeholders at the event on Wednesday, the Minister expressed his deep appreciation to the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway for their invaluable support in helping to draft the critical strategy document.
The workshop, held from October 14 to 16 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, focused on innovative approaches, challenges, and best practices in managing Nigeria’s extensive marine ecosystem.
In his closing remarks, Oyetola praised the active involvement of National Assembly members, consultants, and facilitators.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your participation and contributions over the past three days. Your presence here underscores our collective commitment to advancing the blue economy in Nigeria—an endeavor that is crucial for the sustainable management of our vast marine resources and the well-being of our communities,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability in realizing Nigeria’s vision for a thriving blue economy.
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“Throughout our discussions, we explored innovative strategies, identified key challenges, and shared best practices in harnessing the potential of our marine and coastal resources. Our vision for a sustainable blue economy must be built on collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainability,” Oyetola noted.
The former Osun State Governor also urged stakeholders to stay actively engaged in implementing the strategy.
“The true measure of our success will be seen in the tangible benefits we bring to our communities and the ecosystems we are entrusted to protect. Together, we can navigate the path toward a vibrant blue economy that not only addresses today’s needs but also secures a prosperous future for generations to come,” Oyetola concluded.
Mr. Georges Asseko, Head of the Blue Economy Division at the African Union Commission (AUC), also expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian government for its hospitality and cooperation in hosting a successful validation workshop.
He commended the partnership between the AUC, AU-IBAR, and the Kingdom of Norway in the development of Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy.
“I would like to thank the Kingdom of Norway for its support and continued collaboration with AU-IBAR in implementing the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, in alignment with national priorities and the aspirations of the AU Agenda 2063,” Asseko said.
The closing ceremony was attended by notable figures, including the Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu (represented), the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal (represented), the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari (represented by his Permanent Secretary), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, and Chairman of the House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim.
