In a significant move to diversify Nigeria’s economy, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering partnerships with industry players, driving innovation, and promoting sustainability.
This declaration was made at the Stakeholders Sensitization Workshop on Deep Seabed Activities in Nigeria, held in Abuja.
Oyetola emphasized the crucial role of government-private sector partnerships in unlocking the maritime sector’s full potential.
He highlighted Nigeria’s transition from a fossil fuel-based economy to a mineral-based one, presenting opportunities to leverage marine resources for clean energy generation.
“Nigeria’s establishment of a full-fledged Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 demonstrates our commitment to diversifying our economy and capitalizing on the global surge in deep-sea exploration,” Oyetola stated.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness among key stakeholders about the significance of deep seabed exploration and exploitation.
NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, assured that the agency will ensure Nigeria’s compliance with global standards in collaboration with the International Seabed Authority and relevant MDAs.
Mobereola stressed the need to amend the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 to reflect the ISA’s model legislation on exploration and exploitation.
He acknowledged the ministry and NIMASA’s commitment to implementing relevant legislative frameworks for sustainable marine environment use and safety standards.
Representatives from the Nigerian Shippers Council, Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, National Border Commission, International Seabed Authority, and Ministry of Mines and Steel Development attended the workshop.
This development is expected to boost Nigeria’s marine economy, particularly in the areas of: deep seabed Exploration, renewable energy and sustainable Practices.
With Nigeria’s extensive coastline and inland waterways, this commitment to marine and blue economy development is seen as a significant step towards diversifying the nation’s economy and promoting sustainable growth.
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