‘We’re Positioning Blue Economy As Major Driver of National GDP’ – Oyetola

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON has said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to raising the national GDP with a strong revenue mapping and economic activities within the nation’s marine and blue economy.

Oyetola who was speaking at a one day seminar organized by the League of Maritime Editors and Publishers (LOMEP) at the Lagos Airport Hotel Friday, August 23, 2024 said the marine and blue economy has the potential to create jobs and provide sundry economic activities with the capacity to rejuvenate the national GDP.

Represented by Babatunde Sule, Director Maritime Services, Oyetola commended the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for creating the ministry, stating the creation of the ministry is a clear indication of President Tinubu’s political will to ensure that Nigeria reclaims its rightful place amongst the committee of maritime nations.

“The vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to create the Ministry is a monumental step towards harnessing the vast untapped potentials of Nigeria’s maritime sector. This decision is not only a demonstration of the Presidents deep understanding of the economic possibilities of the sector, but also a clear indication of his political will to ensure that Nigeria reclaims its rightful place as a key maritime player globally.

“The maritime industry has the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. With our rich coastline and strategic location, the country is well positioned to become a key hub for maritime activities in Africa. The creation of this Ministry therefore reflects Government’s commitment to building a future where the blue economy plays major role in national prosperity.

“In bringing this vision to life, we are working to reposition the sector by improving port efficiency, enhancing infrastructure, boosting maritime security, and developing the workforce. Additionally, we aim to sustainably leverage maritime resources to create jobs, increase revenue, and promote environmental stewardship.”

The minister further noted that the window of economic opportunities provided by the marine and blue economy is not only vast but represents an enormous gold mine with sustainable exploitation.

He enjoined LOMEP and the maritime media to continue to support the national vision through developmental journalism and creative media/industry partnership.

“We rely on you to emphasize the maritime sector’s vast potentials and amplify the message that it can significantly boost our GDP, create millions of jobs, and open new avenues for investment and innovation. This can only be achieved if the sector receives the required attention, support, commitment and involvement of all Nigerians.

“Let me state that the Ministry is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders, particularly the media, to foster a globally competitive and sustainable maritime industry. Together, we can position the blue economy as a major source of growth and opportunity for Nigeria”, he said.