Nigeria’s maritime ambitions took the spotlight as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, delivered a compelling keynote at the 2025 World Maritime Day celebration held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Addressing a distinguished audience of global diplomats, industry leaders, and stakeholders, Oyetola emphasized the urgent need for responsible ocean governance. The event’s theme—“Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”—echoed the International Maritime Organization’s global appeal to protect marine ecosystems while unlocking sustainable economic growth.
“The ocean produces up to 80% of the Earth’s oxygen, supports billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80% of global trade,” Oyetola stated. He however noted that it faces unprecedented threats from pollution and overfishing to climate change, warning that “we must be stewards, not exploiters.”
The Minister outlined Nigeria’s multi-pronged strategy to modernize port infrastructure, enforce sustainable fishing practices, and enhance maritime safety and security
He commended the dedication of agencies under the Ministry and their alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Oyetola spotlighted the blue economy as a frontier for innovation, citing opportunities in renewable ocean energy, marine biotechnology and aquaculture.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to reducing reliance on oil and gas through bold reforms and international collaboration.
In a diplomatic appeal, the Minister invited global partners to deepen cooperation in maritime governance.
“Diplomacy is the strongest anchor of the maritime sector,” he said. “We look forward to working with the international community to advance both Nigeria’s interests and the collective good.”
Oyetola also announced Nigeria’s bid to rejoin Category C of the IMO Council, citing the country’s longstanding contributions to global maritime policy and expressing optimism about re-election.
The celebration concluded with a renewed national commitment to safeguard the ocean and harness its promise for future generations.
“Our ocean is our shared legacy,” Oyetola declared. “Our obligation is to protect it. Our opportunity is to transform it.”