The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, on Tuesday organised a validation workshop to develop a national policy aimed at addressing environmental degradation, recurring boat mishaps, and illegal activities such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Speaking at the workshop, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stated that the ministry has diligently developed strategies to ensure the sustainable use of Nigeria’s marine resources. These efforts are supported by partnerships with the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and other stakeholders, including finalizing policies on fisheries and aquaculture in collaboration with WorldFish.
According to the minister, “The blue economy represents a transformative pathway for nations striving to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. For Nigeria, with over 853 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and a vast exclusive economic zone, the marine environment offers unparalleled opportunities ranging from fisheries and aquaculture to shipping, tourism, and renewable energy.
“However, these opportunities come with challenges such as unsustainable practices, environmental degradation, and illegal activities like Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. A robust National Policy will provide a comprehensive framework to address these issues, aligning with international best practices while safeguarding our marine resources for future generations.
“This validation workshop is a significant milestone in our efforts to elevate Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. It reflects diligent and inclusive policymaking, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to collaboration and precision.
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“The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has meticulously developed strategies for the sustainable use of our marine resources. These efforts, bolstered by partnerships with AU-IBAR and other stakeholders, include the finalization of policies on fisheries and aquaculture in collaboration with WorldFish. These critical contributions are essential inputs into the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.”
The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s progress in maritime governance, noting the ratification and domestication of international protocols and conventions.
“These measures have strengthened our safety and security framework, resulting in a remarkable three-year period without incidents of piracy in our waters. Nonetheless, the frequent occurrence of boat mishaps highlights the urgent need for immediate action.
“This policy seeks to implement comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of all waterways. The ministry remains committed to repositioning Nigeria as a dominant player in the marine and blue economy regionally and globally. We are also pursuing Nigeria’s candidacy for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), underscoring our determination to strengthen our voice in global maritime governance.”
The minister emphasized the need for private sector investment to modernize ports, a critical step for boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness and attracting sustainable funding for the sector.
“As we develop this policy, our goal is to ensure it addresses the needs of all stakeholders, incorporates global standards, and positions Nigeria as a regional leader in the blue economy,” he said.
The minister concluded by expressing appreciation to stakeholders:
“On behalf of the ministry, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished resource persons, industry leaders, and stakeholders for honoring our invitation. Your participation is invaluable, and I urge you to contribute actively to this discourse.
“On this note, I declare this technical validation workshop open. I wish you all fruitful deliberations and thank you for your unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.”
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