Oyetola Tasks Heads Of Agencies On Judicious Use Of Monetary Allocations
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has charged agencies in the ministry to ensure that monetary allocations deliver a measurable impact in line with policy framework.
He made this known on Wednesday during the Ministry’s Session with Agencies to consider their 2025 Budget Proposal.
The minister urged the agencies to prioritise their 2025 budget proposals to ensure impactful development in line the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and the National Development Plan.
Oyetola said the budget proposals will further consolidate the plan of the Ministry to develop Nigeria’s marine and blue economy potentials.
He urged the agencies to demonstrate transparency, fiscal prudence, and strategic prioritization.
“Our fiscal strategy must reflect the ambitions outlined in our policy framework. We are tasked with ensuring that every naira allocated delivers a measurable impact.”
“I hope that the 2025 budget will not only provide for the immediate needs of this Ministry/Agencies but will serve as a catalyst for sustainable marine resource management and long-term national economic growth.” Oyetola continued.
He affirmed that, the marine and blue economy sector holds unparalleled potential for national development as it provides sustainable platform for economic growth, job creation and environmental stewardship, adding that attaining these, aligns with the key priority areas of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President as it relates to Marine and Blue Economy.
Oyetola stated that resources should be channelled towards strengthening maritime domain through investments in surveillance systems, operations and enforcement of maritime laws.
Furthermore, he highlighted the need to enhance capacity in aquaculture, fishing ports and curbing illegal and unregulated fishing activities in the sector.
Other priority areas such as promoting oceanographic research, stock assessment, renewable marine energy and climate resilience technologies; he said should equally be on the front burner of the agencies.
On the draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, the Minister stated that the policy is not just a document, but a roadmap that will guide collective efforts towards the sustainable management of marine resources, climate adaptation, technological innovation and enhanced governance in the sector.
“This policy embodies our commitment to international best practices and sustainable development goals particularly SDG 14, which emphasizes the sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources.”
According a statement by the Director Information and Public Relations ,Anastasia Ogbonna the Heads of Agencies in attendance included: Nigeria Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, National Inland Waterways, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria, Nigeria Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research, Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology and the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology.
