Nigeria is set to strengthen its maritime security framework and reduce dependence on fish imports, as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced plans to expand the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, also known as the Deep Blue Project.
Speaking in Abuja while receiving the leadership of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Oyetola disclosed that a proposal had been submitted to the Federal Government to upgrade the project. He described the Deep Blue initiative as a transformative programme that has delivered measurable results, including over four years without piracy incidents in Nigerian waters.
According to the minister, the project integrates air, land and sea assets with advanced surveillance systems, significantly improving maritime domain awareness and response capabilities. He noted that the improved security has restored confidence among international shipping companies and investors operating in Nigeria’s waters and across the Gulf of Guinea.
Oyetola said the gains have translated into broader economic benefits, including increased shipping traffic, lower insurance costs, improved port activities and enhanced regional trade flows. He added that the planned expansion would consolidate these achievements and position Nigeria as a leading force in maritime security within West and Central Africa.
On fisheries and aquaculture, the minister said the government is intensifying efforts to grow local production and end the country’s reliance on fish imports. He revealed that initiatives are underway to reactivate fishing terminals nationwide and provide support to artisanal fish farmers.
“It is no longer acceptable that Nigeria continues to spend huge foreign exchange on fish importation,” he said, stressing the government’s determination to achieve self-sufficiency.
He cited a recent increase in local fish production from 1.1 million metric tonnes to 1.4 million metric tonnes in 2025 — the first growth recorded in a decade — as a sign of progress, while noting that further measures would be implemented to meet domestic demand and expand export capacity.
In a significant development, Oyetola disclosed that the United States had approved Nigeria’s Turtle Excluder Device, a certification that allows Nigerian shrimp exports to access both U.S. and European markets. He said the approval would boost foreign exchange earnings, improve the competitiveness of Nigeria’s seafood industry and create jobs across the value chain.
The minister assured the NESG of sustained collaboration with the private sector to drive reforms and attract investments into the marine and blue economy.
Earlier, NESG Chief Executive Officer, Tayo Aduloju, commended the ministry for developing a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a vital framework for unlocking the sector’s potential. He said effective implementation of the policy would promote sustainable resource management, strengthen governance, protect the environment and increase private sector participation.
Aduloju added that the policy would contribute to GDP growth, job creation and food security, while positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global blue economy. He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the ministry and advancing economic reforms since assuming office in May 2023.
A statement issued by Bolaji Akinola noted that the meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Fatima Mahmood, as well as the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Busayo Fakinlede, alongside other senior officials.
Founded in 1996, the NESG remains a leading private sector-driven think tank promoting public-private dialogue aimed at building a globally competitive, inclusive and sustainable Nigerian economy.
