Oyetola Leads Stakeholders in Sustainable Fisheries Path
By Kabir Akintayo
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola on Wednesday, sought partnership with Fish importers, exporters dealers, producers and processors in the country.
Oyetola in his opening address at the Stakeholder’s Engagement with Fish Importers & Exporters, held at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos state said that the partnership will help propel the nation towards sustainable growth in the fishery sector.
He said, “I am glad to be here specifically to meet with you. This gathering is aimed at deepening the rapport between the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and key stakeholders in this sector in order to collectively chart the course for the sustainable development of Nigeria’s blue economy.
“We recognize the notable contributions of fish importers in bridging the local demand gaps and also the valuable boost exporters deliver through the export of our unique species to international markets; these contributions we cannot take for granted.
“The welfare of Nigerian citizens is closely tied to the availability of quality seafood products. It is for this reason that the Ministry considers your group a major partner in its pursuit to enhance our country’s sufficiency within a sustainable framework,” Oyetola said.
The former governor of Osun state hailed the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the unprecedented commitment demonstrated by the establishment of the Blue Economy ministry heralding a new era of focus and consolidation in the sector.
He said, “As you are aware, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for the sector is lofty and the commitment of the administration through the creation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is the highest in the history of our nation.
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“This resolve has further been reinforced by the movement of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department to the Ministry earlier this year. This is instructive, as all issues pertaining to the administration of Fisheries and its related activities now fall under the purview of the Ministry.
“This gathering being the first since the welcome of the Department to the Ministry is therefore fitting. The vision of the Ministry is to lead the Fisheries and Aquaculture sector towards a prosperous and sustainable blue future; where our rich marine resources benefit all Nigerians, now and for generations to come.
“Fisheries and Aquaculture is a key component of the blue economy, it is therefore is a major focus of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy action plan.” Oyetola maintained.
The minister further urged stakeholders in the fishery sector to adhere to international best practices, emphasizing the need for responsible fishing practices and the combatting of illegal activities detrimental to marine resources.
He also rallied attendees to engage in frank and constructive dialogue, fostering partnerships and innovation to propel Nigeria’s blue economy towards prosperity.
Meanwhile, stakeholders at the events commended President Tinubu for the moving of the department of Fishery and Aquaculture to Marine and Blue Economy where they rightly belong.
Earlier in his welcoming address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olufemi Micheal Oloruntola said that the Marine and Blue Economy sector is working towards policy that will enable mutual benefits for both parties.
He said, “Several vital policy decisions are soon to be taken. We have painstakingly identified some major stakeholders in the marine and blue economy sector for this round of engagements. I am pleased to note that your esteemed group is one of these stakeholders. We are here to seek your valued experience and contributions,” Oluruntola said.
