Minister of Marine & Blue Economy Calls for Collaborations to Improve Maritime Sector
Shiktra Shalangwa
The newly appointed Nigerian Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has called for collaboration among stakeholders to find innovative solutions to the challenges in the Maritime sector and ensure the oceans and marine are safe, reliable, and sustainable.
The Minister made the call while resuming duty at the federal ministry of Transportation, Abuja, adding that he would contribute his quota to realise President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the Marine and Blue Economy sector.
The Minister said effective collaborations to achieve a common goal can only be efficient and effective through team work.
The Minister said “I must say that I am privileged to join this amazing team as the team leader. I want you to know that I am here to support you, to listen to your ideas, and to champion the growth of our marine resources. Together, we shall embark on a journey that holds immense promise and responsibility.”
Mr Oyetola said the oceans holds the key to sustainable economic growth, environmental preservation, technology and innovation.
He added: “As we look ahead, my vision is rooted in the responsible management and utilisation of our marine resources to benefit not only our economy but also the health of our planet.
“Experts say the Blue Economy is estimated to be worth more than 1.5 trillion Dollars per year globally.
Therefore, given our size as a country and considering the size of our blue economy, we should be a significant player in this sector, so as to contribute immensely to the revenue generation of our country and also provide jobs for the unemployed.”
The Marine and Blue Economy Minister noted that he would ensure that the inland rivers, lakes, and waterways are well utilised, both in terms of Cargo shipment and passenger transportation, by embarking on a holistic dredging campaign for most of the strategically important inland waterways so as to make them navigable for the passage of goods and people.
“We equally have a duty to promote better inter-agency cooperation and coordination between the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority.
“As someone with a strong private sector background, we shall promote greater private sector inclusion while fostering greater efficiency through specialisation and the effective delineation of core duties between the units.”
He said the opportunity would create a platform for positive change, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
