By Chris Agabi
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola has described the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy framework as having the potential to drive national prosperity in line with Africa’s Agenda 2063.
He also said the policy is a well-rounded and inclusive framework that will enhance maritime governance and ultimately establish the sector.
A statement signed by Muhammad Tahir Zakari,
Head, Press & Public Relations.
FMM&BE indicated the minister made the assertion during the Second and Final leg of the Executive Technical Validation Workshop of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy holding in Abuja.
He noted that the series of validation workshops and engagements in the past couple of months is aimed at redefining and producing a formidable framework that will serve as a blueprint to advance Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Oyetola acknowledged the Ministry’s vision for the sector, hence the assemblage of professionals ranging from industry experts, academics, and researchers.
He said this affirms and further reflects the Ministry’s dedication and commitment to the growth and development of the sector, Oyetola said.
Acknowledging the maritime domain as a crucial pillar of Nigeria’s future economy, the Minister harped on the importance of addressing the bond between the marine and blue economy sector side by side with economic growth while observing that an inclusive maritime policy portends the ability position Nigeria as a leader in the global blue economy.
‘‘This engagement aims to restore our priorities and solidify a framework for advancing the maritime sector over the next few years. As you are aware, a key factor in driving maritime development is the establishment of a strong policy framework.” Oyetola said.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oloruntola Olufemi, said the final and executive validation workshop was to harp on the gains and achievements of the previous engagement.
Oloruntola further stated that the marine industry is fast gaining economic relevance and changing fortunes of many nations on a global scale.
Hear him, “This workshop is an opportunity to consolidate those efforts and finalise a framework that will guide the sustainable growth of the Blue Economy in Nigeria. Over the past few months, we have witnessed the growing significance of the marine sector in global discourse.
Oloruntola told the stakeholders, “As we face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, this policy represents a forward-thinking approach to harnessing the immense potential of our blue economy.“
