The Federal government is consulting stakeholders in the Maritime sector with the aim of establishing a National Blue Economy Strategy Documents as a means of increasing revenue generation within the industry in Nigeria.
Speaking while declaring open a two-day workshop for Maritime stakeholders in Abuja on Monday, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola said the document will serve as a roadmap for the sustainable development of the sector.
“This validation workshop is both timely and essential, as it comes at a period when the Ministry is focused on policy formulation, strategy development, governance harmonization, and institutional capacity building for the sustainable development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.
“Nigeria is blessed with a vast coastline and diverse marine resources, with significant potential in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, marine transport, maritime security, renewable energy, and mineral resources.
“Unlocking the full potential of these sectors requires a strategic, sustainable approach, built on research, collaboration, and public-private partnerships, including partnerships with organizations, among others.
“To this end, Nigeria is embarking on an ambitious plan to upscale its blue economy through a diverse range of Initiatives” he stated.
The Minister explained that “this initiative aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, by midwifing the establishment of quantum numbers of small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade in the sector to create jobs.
“We are aligning with Blue Belt Initiative, which is the sustainable use of our ocean resources to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods while preserving ocean ecosystems.
“The draft National Blue Economy Strategy represents Nigeria’s vision for a sustainable Blue Economy, and I urge all participants to critically review this document to ensure it addresses the nation’s priorities comprehensively.”
Oyetola also commended the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway for their unwavering support toward the development of Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy document.
I’m his address, Georges Mba Asseko of Africa Union said the Commission recognized the immense potential of the blue economy as a catalyst for growth and sustainable development across the country.
“The Commission will continue to prioritize the blue economy as a gate dealer for Africa’s sustainable development, economic transformation, and resilience work.
“Our work is guided by the African Union agenda 2063 which envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa driven by its resources and position it, as a dynamic force in the global arena.
“In this extent, the blue economy is integral to fostering inclusive economy growth, ensuring food security, creating job and wealth, protecting ecosystem and promoting regional integration”.
Asseko noted; “Nigeria, with rich marine resources and strategic location, is well positioned to be leader in Africa blue economy. This has been proven by the first development of aquaculture value chain that makes the country now the second producer of aquaculture products per year in the continent.
“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’s a crucial step toward realizing the vision of economic resilience, environmental skill, workmanship, and social equity.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to the national stakeholder who have contributed their expertise and insight during the process”.
He acknowledged that the challenges are many, “but so too are the opportunities. Nigeria’s successful implementation of this trajectory 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 capitalise on the momentum generated today, and to establish an institutional mechanism and partnership necessary to transform the aquatic, embedded potential into successful economic drivers” Mba stated.
On his part, Obinna Anozie said the workshop is expected to provide strategy on how to improve Maritime transportation, increase tourism in industry as well as suggest other ways that can improve and grow the Maritime sector in Nigeria.
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