The Federal Government has stated its commitment to ensuring the protection and sustainable management of ocean resources, while playing a pivotal role in driving inclusive, science-based, and economically viable ocean solutions.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stated this on Sunday at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco.
The event which held ahead of the United Nations (UN) Oceans Conference in Nice, France, was hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Themed around a regenerative blue economy and sustainable ocean finance, the gathering emphasized the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable use of ocean resources.
Leaders discussed accelerating the transition to a resilient ocean economy, scaling up funding for SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and aligning marine science with policymaking to safeguard the planet’s largest ecosystem.
Nigeria’s participation in the event underscored the country’s growing commitment to ocean governance, maritime sustainability, and climate adaptation through its Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
As the sector continues to play a critical role in economic diversification and environmental protection, Oyetola’s presence reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to engage actively on global platforms and collaborate with international partners to foster innovation, investment, and sustainable practices in its coastal and marine sectors.
On the sidelines of the event, Oyetola engaged with other leaders, technical experts, and institutional leaders to explore avenues for increased cooperation in blue economy development, marine conservation, and capacity building across the West and Central African subregion.
According to a statement by the minister’s Special Adviser, Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola,his participation further positioned Nigeria as a stakeholder in shaping ocean governance policies ahead of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, where key agreements and commitments to expand marine protected areas are expected to be discussed.
