The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed his commitment to the full implementation of Nigeria’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy. He called on senior officials and agency heads to demonstrate effective leadership and inter-agency collaboration to achieve measurable outcomes.
In an official statement, Oyetola described the policy implementation as a “defining moment for reflection, realignment, and purposeful engagement.” He stressed that the gathering was more than a routine exercise, calling it an opportunity to evaluate the sector’s direction and reposition it for impactful delivery in line with national expectations.
Renewed Hope Agenda
The Minister highlighted the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places the Marine and Blue Economy sector at the heart of Nigeria’s economic growth strategy. He cited significant achievements already underway, including:
•Port infrastructure modernization
•Enhanced port efficiency
•Maritime security improvements
•Aquaculture and fisheries development
•Disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF)
The recent approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council was described as a foundational achievement, setting the strategic framework for long-term sectoral transformation.
Focus on Implementation
With the strategic framework now in place, Oyetola urged the Ministry and its agencies to internalise the policy’s strategic priorities and convert them into actionable programmes. He stressed the need for:
•Disciplined execution
•Coordination and technology adoption
•Transparency and environmental stewardship
•Institutional accountability
He also underscored the importance of the Performance Bonds signed during the retreat, urging officials to treat them as serious commitments to deliver concrete, time-bound outcomes. These goals include:
•Enhancing the sector’s contribution to GDP
•Expanding job creation
•Increasing port throughput
•Improving regulatory compliance and revenue mobilisation
Pursuit of IMO Council Seat
Oyetola further stressed Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council as a strategic national objective. He called on the Ministry to lead diplomatic efforts and encouraged agencies to actively support Nigeria’s international maritime standing.
“We must demonstrate that Nigeria is committed to global maritime standards and efficient port operations. Our bid for the IMO Council seat is not just symbolic; it represents our dedication to leadership in the global maritime community,” Oyetola stated.
