Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Nigeria

At the PMAWCA Mid-Year Board Meeting in Lagos, the Honourable Minister H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola, reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to modernising port infrastructure, deepening channels, advancing digital transformation through the National Single Window, and strengthening maritime security.

The Minister disclosed that approvals had been granted for the development of additional deep seaports across the country to complement existing infrastructure, strengthen supply chain resilience, and improve operational efficiency. He noted that these efforts are already contributing to faster cargo evacuation, reduced vessel waiting time, and a more predictable business environment for investors and port users.

Dr. Oyetola also highlighted the progress recorded through the Deep Blue Project, which has significantly reduced maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea and restored investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime corridor. He stated that ongoing upgrades to existing ports and efforts to attract larger vessels are aimed at building a globally competitive maritime sector capable of unlocking trade, creating jobs, and accelerating sustainable economic growth.

The PMAWCA meeting further provided a platform for stakeholders across West and Central Africa to advance discussions on resilient port operations, innovation, sustainability, and stronger regional collaboration within the maritime sector.
Nigeria, he affirmed, remains committed to leading reforms and strategic partnerships that will shape the future of maritime trade and unlock the full potential of the blue economy across Africa.

At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola , projected Nigeria’s Blue Economy agenda during a high-level panel discussion on “Blue Economy — Maritime Sovereignty & Sustainable Valorization,” alongside global maritime leaders and stakeholders.

The summit, co-hosted by William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron, brought together African leaders, policymakers, investors and development partners to strengthen partnerships, drive innovation and accelerate sustainable economic growth across the continent. Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, joined fellow African leaders at the landmark engagement, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation, economic transformation and maritime development.

During the session, Oyetola highlighted the bold reforms being implemented by the Federal Government since the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in August 2023, including the development of Nigeria’s first National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

He also noted that agencies under the Ministry generated N1.83 trillion in 2025, while the ongoing port modernization programme is expected to enhance trade, create jobs and further position Nigeria as the leading maritime hub for West and Central Africa.

At the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) of the International Maritime Organization in London, Nigeria reaffirmed its support for net-zero shipping—anchored on fairness, equity, and adequate support for developing countries.

The Honourable Minister H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola emphasised that achieving decarbonisation by 2050 must align with sustainable development priorities and reflect the realities of emerging economies.

On the sidelines, the Minister held productive engagements with Arsenio Dominguez and Fawaz Al Sehali, strengthening collaboration on maritime security, capacity building, blue economy growth, and a just energy transition.

Nigeria remains committed to a strong partnership with the IMO and to advancing maritime safety, regional security in the Gulf of Guinea, port modernisation, and human capital development.

Happy Workers’ Day to all Nigerians powering our Marine and Blue Economy.

Your dedication - from our seafarers and port workers to fisheries and coastal communities - drives growth and national prosperity. We remain committed to supporting you with policies that ensure safety, create jobs, and unlock our marine potential.

Together, we will build a stronger, sustainable blue economy.

Happy Workers’ Day!

On this joyous occasion of Easter, I extend warm greetings and best wishes to all Christians in Nigeria and around the world.

Easter is a sacred season that reminds us of the enduring values of sacrifice, renewal, hope, and the triumph of life over adversity.
It calls us to reflect on the virtues of love, unity, and selflessness, which are essential for building a peaceful and prosperous nation.

As we celebrate, I encourage all Nigerians to embrace these values and remain steadfast in our collective commitment to national development, unity, and sustainable progress-particularly in harnessing the immense opportunities within our marine and blue economy for the benefit of present and future generations.

May the spirit of Easter fill our hearts with renewed faith, strengthen our resolve, and inspire us to work together for a brighter and more resilient Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister, H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola, recently welcomed citizens, stakeholders, and institutional leaders to the first quarter engagement, combining the Citizens/Stakeholders Forum, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Retreat. This reflects the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and results-driven governance.

Under his leadership, the Ministry has achieved remarkable progress: modernising Apapa & Tin Can Island Ports, advancing deep seaports nationwide, developing inland dry ports, and launching the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund to empower indigenous shipowners. Fisheries have been strengthened, a zero-piracy record maintained, revenue boosted by 160%, and Nigeria secured a seat on the IMO Council.

The Ministry’s vision is clear: harness marine resources to drive economic diversification, job creation, food security, and foreign exchange growth. Through infrastructure, stakeholder engagement, and private sector collaboration, Nigeria’s blue economy is set for a sustainable, prosperous future.

H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola , received the European Union Evaluation Mission on the Gulf of Guinea Inter-regional Network Project, led by Ms. Stéphanie Vergniault, in Abuja.

Dr. Oyetola highlighted the need for stronger cooperation to tackle illegal fishing, trafficking, and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea. He emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to the Yaoundé Architecture for Maritime Security, the Deep Blue Project, and regional partnerships to secure the maritime domain and advance the blue economy.

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and Chairman of the Conference of Ministers of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC), H.E (Dr.) Adegboyega Oyetola , today received the Secretary-General and Secretariat of the FCWC on a courtesy visit to the Ministry.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation in fisheries governance and its role as pilot country for the Regional Record of Authorised Fishing Vessels, a major step in combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Gulf of Guinea.

Dr. Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s resolve to strengthen maritime surveillance and promote sustainable fisheries through continued collaboration with the FCWC and relevant national institutions.

As we observe Ash Wednesday, I wish all Christian faithful a blessed Lenten season.

May this period of reflection renew our faith, deepen our compassion, and inspire love and service to one another.

Wishing you a meaningful Lenten journey.

May this holy month of Ramadan bring us peace and blessings.

Ramadan Mubarak.