Lagos: The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to ocean stewardship, maritime security, and the growth of a sustainable blue economy at the 2025 World Maritime Day celebration. Speaking at the event in Lagos on Thursday, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized this year’s theme, ‘Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity’, highlighting the need for collective responsibility in protecting the ocean while unlocking its vast economic potential.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Oyetola stressed the ocean’s critical global role, noting it covers more than 70 percent of the planet, produces up to 80 percent of the Earth’s oxygen, sustains billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80 percent of global trade. He pointed out the ocean’s mounting threats from pollution, overfishing, climate change, and neglect, urging stewardship over exploitation.
Mr. Oyetola outlined progress under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, such as the modernisation of port infrastructure, adoption of sustainable maritime policies, and enhanced regional frameworks for security and trade. He described the blue economy as a promising new frontier for diversification beyond oil and gas, mentioning opportunities in renewable ocean energy, marine biotechnology, and sustainable aquaculture.
The Minister invited the diplomatic community to engage, noting the maritime sector as a natural platform for international cooperation. He urged Nigerians, maritime stakeholders, and the international community to recommit to protecting ocean resources and ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Oyetola concluded by calling for a renewed commitment on World Maritime Day to protect the ocean and wisely harness its potential for the benefit of future generations. World Maritime Day, established by the International Maritime Organization, is celebrated annually to emphasize shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment.