The Federal Government of Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to unlocking the country’s vast maritime potential.
It aims to diversify the sector beyond its traditional reliance on oil and gas through strategic policies.
Chief Adegboyega Oyetola outlined his vision at the Institute of Maritime Studies’ second Hybrid International Conference on Wednesday.
Hosted by the University of Nigeria’s Enugu Campus, the event emphasized sustainability while bridging economic growth and marine preservation.
Through his keynote address, Oyetola reinforced strategies to anchor ecological balance without stifling development, urging stakeholders to prioritize collaborative solutions for long-term maritime resilience.
This two-day event encouraged discussions on sustainable maritime development.
Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Maritime Services at the ministry, represented Oyetola at the conference. She emphasized the government’s focus on enhancing marine environmental protection, combating pollution, and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.
“As we navigate this new course, our priorities must centre on sustainability, environmental conservation, and inclusive community participation,” he stated.
Strengthening Governance and Policy Frameworks
The minister emphasized that deliberate efforts have been made to strengthen the sector’s regulatory, legal, institutional, and policy frameworks to ensure effective governance.
“A sound policy framework has been painstakingly developed to regulate and direct activities within the marine and blue economy.
We are committed to ensuring that these processes yield tangible outcomes,” he added.
Oyetola also noted President Bola Tinubu’s determination to fully harness the marine economy’s potential as a driver for employment generation and economic growth.
He revealed that the government is leveraging private sector investments and advanced technology to modernize maritime infrastructure and operations.
“We are actively modernizing both Western and Eastern Ports, a strategy expected to create over 20,000 direct jobs,” he emphasized.
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Additionally, we are advancing key projects such as Fish Terminals/Harbours, Inland Dry Ports, and modern shipyards.
Furthermore, we are establishing a National Shipping Carrier and digital platforms for sector transactions, all driven by private-sector collaborations.
Balancing Growth with Marine Preservation
The conference also underscored the need for sustainable practices in the maritime sector. Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Oguejiofo Ujam, represented by Professor Ike Agbaeze, highlighted the critical role of Nigeria’s oceans and coastal zones in global commerce, biodiversity preservation, and cultural heritage. He stressed that industrialisation and environmental challenges demand collective efforts to balance economic growth with marine conservation.
Professor Florence Orabueze, Director of the Institute of Maritime Studies, cautioned against overexploitation of marine resources, pollution, and climate change threats. “We must strike a balance between economic progress and the health of our marine ecosystems,” she asserted.
Exploring New Opportunities in the Blue Economy
A key highlight of the conference was a presentation by Professor Christian Madu, a renowned environmental and climate change expert, titled *Blue Economy – New Opportunities for Nigeria*. The presentation explored untapped opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy and strategies for sustainable exploitation of marine resources.
The event also featured Fellowship Awards conferred on distinguished personalities, including Minister Oyetola and former Kano State Governor Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, in recognition of their contributions to national development.
A Call for Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
The minister commended the organisers of the conference for fostering dialogue and collaboration in the maritime sector. He noted that such platforms are essential for knowledge sharing and for driving collective action towards sustainable development.
Nigeria’s government, academia, and private sector leaders now actively align economic growth with marine conservation.
Transitioning strategically, they prioritize safeguarding the nation’s maritime resources for future generations.
Through collaborative policies and innovation, stakeholders foster sustainable development while preserving ecological balance, ensuring Nigeria’s marine wealth endures amid evolving economic ambitions.
