WMD: Nigeria has obligations to protect her ocean – Oyetola
Nigeria has obligations to protect her ocean, says Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
Oyetola stated this when he declared open the celebration of the 2025 World Maritime Day (WMD) in Lagos on Thursday, September 25.
The theme of the event, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, is aimed at to protecting marine ecosystems while unlocking sustainable economic growth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Emphasizing the critical importance of ocean and the vast potential of the blue economy, the minister said “the ocean produces up to 80 per cent of the Earth’s oxygen, supports billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80 per cent of global trade.
“Yet it faces mounting threats – from pollution and overfishing to climate change. We must be stewards, not exploiters.
“Our ocean is our shared legacy. Our obligation is to protect it. Our opportunity is to transform it.”
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Oyetola listed opportunities in the blue economy to include renewable ocean energy, marine biotechnology, and aquaculture, reiterating the government’s commitment to reducing dependence on oil and gas through bold reforms and international collaboration.
The Minister invited global partners to deepen cooperation in maritime governance, saying “Diplomacy is the strongest anchor of the maritime sector. We look forward to working with the international community to advance both Nigeria’s interests and the collective good.”
On Nigeria’s bid for category C membership of the International Maritime Organization(IMO) Council, Oyetola expressed hope and determination by Nigeria to clinch a seat in the Council during the election in December.
“With broad support already expressed by IMO member states, we are optimistic about our re-election,” said he.
He outlined Nigeria’s strategic efforts to modernize port infrastructure, enforce sustainable fishing practices, and strengthen maritime safety.
The 2025 World Maritime Day event underscored Nigeria’s readiness to lead in shaping the future of maritime governance-at home and on the world stage.
