Nigeria's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, has stated that the creation of a dedicated ministry for the sector by the President Bola Tinubu government is helping to unlock Nigeria's marine resources. He made this statement at his 72nd birthday celebration in Osun State. Oyetola thanked God for preserving his life and appreciated his family, friends, and associates for celebrating with him. The minister emphasized that Nigeria is blessed with abundant marine resources, including 853 kilometres of coastline and about 10,000 kilometres of inland waterways.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has revealed that Nigeria has recorded four consecutive years without a single piracy incident. The agency attributed this milestone to sustained efforts to strengthen maritime safety and security, including the enactment and implementation of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act. NIMASA's Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, made the disclosure at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair. This achievement demonstrates the country's progress in ensuring maritime security.
Oyetola stated that the creation of the ministry is aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria's marine resources. He said the ministry had developed a policy framework to guide investment opportunities in the marine and blue economy. The minister also mentioned that the ministry has made progress in maritime security and safety, including Nigeria's admission into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) after about 15 years. This development is expected to boost the country's maritime sector.
The minister said efforts are ongoing to increase local fish production, with output rising from about 1.3 million to 1.5 million. Measures such as advocacy, distribution of life jackets, and replacement of rickety boats are being implemented to reduce boat mishaps on inland waterways. These initiatives aim to improve the safety and productivity of Nigeria's fishing industry.
Oyetola also mentioned that the government is modernizing the country's ports to increase revenue and attract bigger vessels. He stated that the existing ports are being modernized, with plans to increase the draft level to about 16 meters to accommodate larger vessels. This development is expected to boost Nigeria's maritime trade and revenue.
The modernization of ports is part of the government's efforts to unlock the economic potential of the marine sector. The minister emphasized that the creation of the ministry has led to significant progress in the sector within three years. Oyetola expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria's marine sector.
The unlocking of Nigeria's blue economy potential is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability. The government's efforts to develop the marine sector are seen as a step in the right direction for the country's economic development.
Key points
- The creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is helping to unlock Nigeria's marine resources for job creation and economic growth.
- Nigeria has recorded four consecutive years without a single piracy incident, thanks to sustained efforts to strengthen maritime safety and security.
- The government is modernizing the country's ports to increase revenue and attract bigger vessels.
