From Idu Jude Abuja
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, says that the development of the National Blue Economy Strategy is a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s economic growth.
Oyetola remarked on Wednesday in Abuja while attending the closing ceremony of a three-day stakeholders’ validation workshop for the draft of the National strategy on the Blue Economy. The Minister said that these strategies would be assured while ensuring the protection of the Nation’s marine and coastal ecosystems.
This strategy, according to him, provides a roadmap for the sustainable harnessing of the potential of all aspects of the blue economy.
“As we draw this fruitful consultation, validation workshop, and development session to a close, I wish to express my profound gratitude to the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway for their support in helping Nigeria establish its National Blue Economy Strategy document. “I also extend my appreciation to the Ministers and members of the National Assembly for gracing this auspicious event. Also to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your active participation and contributions over the past three days. Your presence here signifies a collective commitment to advancing the blue economy in Nigeria endeavor that is crucial for the sustainable management of our vast marine resources and the wellbeing of our communities.”
Assessing the three days of the meeting, he observed that stakeholders’ had explored innovative strategies, identified key challenges, and shared best practices in harnessing the potential of the nation’s marine and coastal resources. This he said, clearly demonstrates that Nigeria’s vision for a sustainable blue economy must be anchored in collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to sustainability.
“Let us also remember that unlocking the full potential of all sub-sectors of the blue economy requires a strategic, sustainable approach, built on research, collaboration, and public-private partnerships, including partnerships with organizations such as AU-IBAR, among others. As we move forward, I urge each stakeholder to remain engaged in the implementation of this strategy and to uphold the principles of sustainability in all our endeavors, I urge all stakeholder to remain engaged in the implementation of this strategy and to uphold the principles of sustainability in all our endeavors.”
Dr. George Mba Asseko of the African Union (AU)While commending the effort of the Nigerian government in playing leading roles in Africa, noted that it has been proven by the fast development of aquaculture value chains that make the country now the second producer of aquaculture products per year.
“As this strategy moves from validation to implementation, there is a need for all stakeholders in Nigeria, namely government agencies, private sector actors, civil society organizations, academic experts, and local communities, to actively contribute to the success of this strategy.
“This validation gathering is not just a formal endorsement. It is a crucial step toward realizing a vision of economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and social equity. I would like to extend my gratitude to the national stakeholders who contributed their expertise and insights during the process.”
Dr. Mba Asseko further reminded us that the challenges are many, but so too are the opportunities, adding that Nigeria’s successful implementation of this strategy will not only contribute to the well-being of its citizens but will also provide a model for other African nations to follow. “The Commission encourages the country to capitalize on the momentum generated here today and to establish the institutional mechanisms and partnerships necessary to transform the aquatic embedded potential into a successful driving blue economy.
“The African Union Commission has long recognized the immense potential of the blue economy as a catalyst for growth and sustainable development across our continent.
“The Commission continues to prioritize the blue economy as a key pillar for Africa’s sustainable development, economic transformation, and resilience building”.
He informed that their work is guided by the Africa Union Agenda 2063, which envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its resources and positioned as a dynamic force in the global arena. To this extent, the blue economy is integral to fostering inclusive economic growth, ensuring food security, creating jobs and wealth, protecting ecosystems, and promoting regional integration.”
The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas, in attendance, highlighted the need for proper environmental impact assessment in the draft strategy for Blue Economy. He said that such would ensure sustainable environmental Standards in the long run.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transportation, Sen. Wasiu Sani, and the Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Kadijah Bukar Abbah Ibrahim corroborated the importance of taking the golden opportunities of huge Marine resources in growing the national economy. Members of the National Assembly stated that the nation has taken a bold step in shifting the Nigerian economic base to the enamors resources in the waters.