Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has reiterated the country’s commitment to advancing regional cooperation in blue economy development, marine conservation, and capacity building across West and Central Africa.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, Oyetola emphasized the need for stronger technical collaboration and institutional leadership to sustainably harness Africa’s vast ocean resources.
“Nigeria remains committed to protecting and sustainably managing ocean resources,” Oyetola stated in a release signed by his Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola. “We are focused on driving inclusive, science-based, and economically viable solutions for the ocean economy.”
The minister called for coordinated global action to protect marine ecosystems, accelerate the transition to a resilient blue economy, and increase funding for Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG-14).
He stressed that aligning marine science with policymaking is critical to safeguarding the ocean, the planet’s largest ecosystem, while urging global partners to scale up their commitments toward expanding marine protected areas.
Oyetola said Nigeria will continue to strengthen international partnerships that promote innovation, investment, and sustainable ocean governance, especially in regions most vulnerable to climate and biodiversity threats.
“Our vision is clear: to champion a thriving, resilient ocean economy that benefits our people and the planet,” he said.
UNOC3, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, brings together world leaders under the theme “Scaling up Ocean Action Based on Science and Innovation for the Implementation of Goal 14.”
By Dare Akogun
