
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for greater investments in maritime surveillance systems, enhanced law enforcement, and the development of aquaculture and fishing ports. He also emphasized the need to address illegal and unregulated fishing activities.
A statement from the ministry, released on Wednesday by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Anastasia Ogbonna, highlighted the significant potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy in driving economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Oyetola stressed the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s maritime domain by promoting oceanographic research, stock assessments, renewable marine energy, and climate resilience technologies as top priorities for maritime agencies. He further urged the agencies to align their 2025 budget proposals to support these objectives, ensuring impactful development in the sector.
He also emphasized adherence to the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and the 2021-2025 National Development Plan. During a session to review the ministry’s budget proposals, Oyetola expressed confidence that the proposed budgets would unlock the potential of the nation’s marine and blue economy.
The minister urged agencies to prioritize transparency, fiscal prudence, and strategic planning in their budgeting. “The 2025 budget should not only address the immediate needs of the Ministry and its agencies but also serve as a catalyst for sustainable marine resource management and long-term national growth,” Oyetola concluded.
In discussing the draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola reiterated its importance as a guiding framework for sustainable development, particularly emphasizing SDG 14, which advocates for the responsible use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Representatives from key maritime agencies, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, National Inland Waterways, and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, attended the session.