Nigeria’s quest for economic diversification has taken a significant step forward with the development of the National Blue Economy Strategy, a key framework for leveraging the nation’s marine and coastal resources for economic growth. At the closing session of the National Stakeholders Validation Workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, reiterated the importance of the strategy in enhancing sustainable growth and protecting Nigeria’s maritime ecosystems.
Oyetola emphasized that the strategy document, which focuses on sustainable utilization of marine resources, will be pivotal in unlocking the full potential of the blue economy. This sector encompasses industries such as fisheries, maritime transport, offshore energy, and tourism, which hold immense promise for economic development.
Throughout the discussions, we have explored innovative strategies, identified key challenges, and shared best practices in harnessing the potential of our marine and coastal resources,Oyetola said. He stressed that the success of this initiative would rely on collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as partnerships with international bodies.
The National Blue Economy Strategy aims to ensure the sustainable management of Nigeria’s vast marine resources while boosting the livelihoods of coastal communities. According to Oyetola, Our vision for a sustainable blue economy must be anchored in collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to sustainability.
The development of the National Blue Economy Strategy has been made possible through strategic partnerships with key international organizations. Oyetola acknowledged the support of the African Union Inter African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway, which have been instrumental in helping Nigeria draft this crucial document.
As we draw this fruitful consultation, validation workshop, and development session to a close, I wish to express my profound gratitude to AU-IBAR and the Kingdom of Norway for their support, Oyetola remarked. He also commended the active participation of stakeholders from various sectors, whose contributions have enriched the strategy development process.
Participants in the workshop included experts from academia, industry, and government, all of whom shared insights on how to maximize the benefits of Nigeria’s blue economy. Professor Bamidele O. Omitoyin, President of the Association of Nigerian Fisheries Scientists, expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts, noting that the framework would be essential in managing Nigeria’s marine resources sustainably.
In a related development, the Senate Committee on Marine Economy, led by Senator Bashir Sani, announced that the Coastguard Bill has passed its second reading in the National Assembly. This legislation is expected to provide the necessary legal framework to protect Nigeria’s maritime resources and ensure the smooth functioning of the blue economy sector.
Senator Sani stated, It is necessary for the National Assembly to assist the maritime industry with legislation that will open up the sector and grow the country’s economy. The Coastguard Bill, once enacted, will play a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders and supporting industries dependent on marine resources.
The National Blue Economy Strategy is poised to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. By focusing on sustainable development, the strategy aims to balance economic growth with environmental protection, ensuring that the country’s marine resources can continue to benefit future generations.
As Nigeria moves forward with its blue economy agenda, the involvement of local and international stakeholders, combined with strong legislative support, will be key to its success. With the groundwork laid, the future looks promising for the nation’s maritime industry and its contribution to Nigeria’s broader economic landscape.
This initiative also aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote economic stability, job creation, and poverty alleviation through the development of new sectors like the blue economy. By tapping into the vast potential of its marine resources, Nigeria is charting a path toward sustainable and inclusive growth.
The National Blue Economy Strategy, as highlighted by Oyetola, represents a critical step toward realizing Nigeria’s full economic potential. With the framework in place, supported by legislation like the Coastguard Bill, the country is well positioned to harness the vast opportunities within its marine and coastal ecosystems. Collaboration between stakeholders and international partners will be crucial as Nigeria navigates the complexities of the global blue economy and strives for long term, sustainable growth.