Nigeria's New Marine and Blue Economy Policy Represents a Pivotal Moment for Sustainable Prosperity —Oyetola
Kathy Kyari
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola (CON), described the approval of the first ever National Marine and Blue Economy Policy as a bold and visionary step that will usher in a new era of sustainable prosperity expected to unlock the full potential of the country’s vast marine and coastal resources.
According to him, this is not just a document, it is a strategic roadmap that will guide the growth of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy over the next ten years.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) gave the green light to the policy on Monday, May 5th, 2025, setting the stage for a decade long transformation of Nigeria’s blue economy.
“This is a defining moment for our nation,” Oyetola said shortly after the policy’s approval. “The Federal Executive Council’s endorsement of this visionary policy signals a new dawn for Nigeria’s engagement with its marine and aquatic resources. It is not just a policy document, it is a bold declaration of intent.”
He emphasized that the policy isn’t static it’s designed to be a living document, flexible and responsive to global trends, local realities, and innovation across the sector.
Oyetola highlighted the inclusive process behind the policy’s development, which involved deep consultations with stakeholders from across the country. That approach, he said, gives the policy both credibility and practical strength.
"This is not a top-down document. It is the outcome of patient dialogue, expert input, and stakeholder consensus. That is why we are confident in its impact,” he said.
According to the Minister, Nigeria's marine and coastal resources, which include vast inland rivers and 853 kilometres of coastline, have been mainly underutilised for many years.
He further stated that with the new policy in place, the nation now has a comprehensive blueprint to turn these resources into drivers of environmental sustainability, job creation, and economic diversification.
“We now have a policy that speaks to our aspirations and gives us the tools to achieve them. From maritime trade and aquaculture to blue tourism and clean ocean energy, this policy presents clear pathways to national development,” Oyetola remarked.
The policy comes with a built-in monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure stakeholders stay on track and results are measurable over its ten-year timeline. The Ministry, he assured, is ready to lead the implementation phase with transparency and diligence.
One of the key elements of the new blueprint is the role of the private sector. Oyetola stressed that without serious investment and partnership from both local and international players, the full potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy won’t be realized.
“Private sector investments are crucial for implementing the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy,” Oyetola emphasized. “We strongly encourage domestic businesses and international investors to direct investment into activities that help to grow the marine and blue economy in Nigeria. Furthermore, Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) will be vital in mobilizing the technical expertise and financial capital needed to unlock the full potential of this sector.”
Importantly, the policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a strong emphasis on economic growth, environmental protection, and inclusion.
“This policy reflects Mr. President’s vision of a reimagined Nigeria. One that draws strength from its natural endowments while safeguarding the environment for future generations,” Oyetola said.
“It is time to turn the tide,” he declared. “The ocean is not just a boundary, it is our future. And with this policy, we are ready to navigate that future with clarity, purpose, and unity,” he added.
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