Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to ocean stewardship, maritime security, and sustainable blue economy growth during the 2025 World Maritime Day celebration in Lagos.
Speaking at the 2025 World Maritime Day event held on Thursday in Lagos, Oyetola said the theme of this year’s commemoration — “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity” — underscored the urgent need for collective responsibility in protecting the ocean and unlocking its vast economic potential.
“The ocean, covering more than 70 percent of our planet, produces up to 80 percent of the Earth’s oxygen, sustains billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80 percent of global trade. Yet it is under mounting threat — from pollution, overfishing, climate change and neglect. The message is clear: we must be stewards, not exploiters,” the Minister declared.
Oyetola highlighted progress under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including modernisation of port infrastructure, adoption of sustainable maritime policies, and stronger regional frameworks for security and trade.
He also pointed to the blue economy as a new frontier for diversification beyond oil and gas.
“From renewable ocean energy and marine biotechnology to sustainable aquaculture, the opportunities are vast. Our vision is to harness these possibilities to make the sector a leading contributor to Nigeria’s economy,” he said.
The Minister extended a special invitation to the diplomatic community, noting that “the maritime sector is a natural platform for international cooperation, and diplomacy is its strongest anchor.”
Oyetola urged Nigerians, maritime stakeholders, and the international community to recommit to protecting ocean resources and ensuring sustainability for future generations.
“On this World Maritime Day, let us all renew our pledge to protect the ocean and harness its promise wisely and responsibly. Our obligation is to safeguard it. Our opportunity is to transform it for the benefit of generations to come,” he concluded.
Goodwill addresses were delivered by various stakeholders at the event. Prizes were also presented to school pupils and university undergraduates who won the essay competitions organised in commemoration of the Day.
The World Maritime Day, established by the International Maritime Organization, is celebrated annually to highlight the importance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment.
Also speaking at the event, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola called for active involvement from maritime stakeholders and an emphasis on capacity development.
While highlighting the need for the maritime sector’s growth to support national economic prosperity, he also stressed the importance of implementing global safety standards, promoting maritime security, and ensuring the sustainability and inclusivity of the blue economy.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Pius, also joined key maritime stakeholders to recognize their invaluable contributions to the sector.
