LAGOS – The Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has validated the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

This move is aimed at redefining and producing a formidable framework to advance Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, made the disclosure during the Second and Final leg of the Executive Technical Validation Workshop of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, which held at the Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja.

Muhammed Tahir Zakaria the Minister’s Head of Press and Public Relations disclosed at the weekend.

According to the Minister, with the validation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, Nigeria is poised to take a major step towards securing its maritime future and establishing itself as a key player in the global blue economy.

Oyetola, emphasised the importance of addressing the bond between the marine and blue economy sector side by side with economic growth, noting that an inclusive maritime policy portends the ability to position Nigeria as a leader in the global blue economy ultimately establish the sector as a key driver of national prosperity in line with Africa’s Agenda 2063.

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He said: “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.”

Oloruntola Olufemi, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, also stated that the maritime industry is rapidly becoming a key driver of economic growth globally, transforming the fortunes of many nations. 

He noted that the workshop was an opportunity to consolidate efforts and finalise a framework that will guide the sustainable growth of the Blue Economy in Nigeria.

While speaking with stakeholders, Olufemi reaffirmed that the validation workshop is part of a series of engagements aimed at producing a policy framework that will serve as a blueprint for advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector.

“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.

“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.