The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to ocean stewardship and the development of the blue economy at the 2025 World Maritime Day celebration held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, recently.
The event, themed “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, highlighted the critical importance of protecting marine ecosystems while unlocking sustainable economic growth.
Oyetola emphasised the ocean’s significance, noting that it produces up to 80 per cent of the Earth’s oxygen, supports billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80 per cent of global trade. However, he also acknowledged the mounting threats it faces, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
The Minister outlined Nigeria’s strategic efforts to modernise port infrastructure, enforce sustainable fishing practices, and strengthen maritime safety. He also praised the dedication of agencies under the Ministry and their alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Oyetola highlighted the blue economy as a frontier for innovation, pointing to opportunities in renewable ocean energy, marine biotechnology, and aquaculture. He reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing dependence on oil and gas through bold reforms and international collaboration.
In a diplomatic appeal, the Minister invited global partners to deepen cooperation in maritime governance, stating that “diplomacy is the strongest anchor of the maritime sector”. He also announced Nigeria’s bid to return to Category C of the IMO Council, citing the country’s longstanding contributions to global maritime policy.
The celebration concluded with a renewed national pledge to safeguard the ocean and harness its promise for future generations. “Our ocean is our shared legacy”, Oyetola declared. “Our obligation is to protect it. Our opportunity is to transform it”.
The event showcased Nigeria’s readiness to lead in shaping the future of maritime governance at home and on the world stage.