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  • Adeleke, Oyetola trade words over enforcement of Appeal Court verdict

    Adeleke, Oyetola trade words over enforcement of Appeal Court verdict

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, have traded words over plan to enforce the verdict of Court of Appeal reinstating sacked elected All Progressives Congress (APC) council executives.

    The Nation recalls that the Appeal Court reinstated the council executives, who were elected in 2022, but were sacked by Governor Adeleke after a Federal High Court declared their election as null and void. 

    Adeleke, briefing reporters at the Government House, Oke-Fia, Osogbo alongside the Attorney-General, Oluwole Jimi-Bada and Information Commissioner, Kolapo Alimi, alleged that Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, had hijacked the security of the state.

    According to him, “I am here to alert the national and global audience about a deliberate plot to create chaos and anarchy in Osun State. I am to expose a fascist anti-democratic agenda designed to enforce a non-existing court judgment on our local governments.

    Read Also: Adeleke, Oyetola clash over enforcement of A’ Court verdict reinstating LGAs executives

    “This evil plot is being spearheaded by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, in collaboration with Osun State Commissioner of Police, Osun State Director of DSS and the State Commandant of the Civil Defence Corps.”

    He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, to prevent bloodletting and bloodshed in the state.

    Oyetola in a statement, however,dismissed the allegation that he was plotting to destabilise Osun State. He said his antecedents, pedigree and track record of public service in the last 15 years did not support the claim by Adeleke.

    “I am a man of peace, who has tremendous respect for the judiciary, rule of law and constituted authority, as such will never be a party to any breakdown of law and order.

  • Oyetola’s team arrives Bayelsa to finalise talks on $3billion Agge deep seaport project

    Oyetola’s team arrives Bayelsa to finalise talks on $3billion Agge deep seaport project

    As part of measures to develop maritime infrastructure and ease congestion at the country’s ports, plans are underway to finalise the establishment and commencement of a deep sea port in Agge in Ekeremor local government area, Bayelsa state.

    The $3billion project is a joint Public Private Partnership project of the Bayelsa State, the federal government, and a major private investor.

    The proposed deep seaport is expected to create more jobs and promote socioeconomic activities in the area, attract more investment, and make the state a major transport hub for the north and southeastern parts of the country.

    According to sources from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, a Project Delivery Team from the Ministry is in Bayelsa to work closely with the Bayelsa State government in finetuning plans to commence the project.

     In line with his objectives to improve port infrastructure, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said the ministry is making efforts to improve port infrastructure and connectivity and facilitate the ongoing development of critical maritime infrastructure in the country.

    The team, according to a source familiar with the project, is in Bayelsa on the mandate of the Minister to fast-track the commencement of the project.

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    The Minister is optimistic that the project will help close the maritime infrastructure gap in the country.

    The Bayelsa State Governor had last year, during a courtesy call on the minister in Abuja, solicited the support of the Federal Government towards the development of the deep seaport in Agge to harness the state’s blue economy potential.

    Oyetola, during the visit, acknowledged the blue economy potential in the state and noted that the federal government will explore the Public Private Partnership (PPP) approach to ensure the completion of the project.

    It was also learnt that the Ministry is working towards attracting more private sector investments and Foreign Direct Investment to develop the country’s maritime infrastructure, which would further position Nigeria as a leader among maritime nations.

    Upon completion, it is expected that the Agge deep seaport project will attract multi-billion naira investment to the State, which is regarded as a major maritime hub of the nation.

    It was also hinted that the Public Private Partnership (PPP) approach would be explored in the development of other proposed deep seaport projects in other parts of the country.

  • Oyetola, Egbetokun, Obi, Aremu, others celebrate Amitolu at 60

    Oyetola, Egbetokun, Obi, Aremu, others celebrate Amitolu at 60

    Osogbo, the Osun State capital played host to a remarkable celebration recently as Nigerians from all walks of life gathered to honour Comrade Amitolu Shittu, a renowned human rights activist, on his 60th birthday. The event was not only a birthday celebration but also a moment to reflect on Amitolu’s decades-long commitment to justice, equality and the betterment of Nigerian society. Six books authored by the celebrant were launched during the event, providing a fitting tribute to his life’s work and unyielding dedication to activism. Among the dignitaries who attended the event were the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections Peter Obi; and prominent human rights advocate, Comrade Isa Aremu. These esteemed individuals hailed Amitolu for his courage, selflessness and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic ideals.

    Held at the Adolak Event Centre in Osogbo, the event saw heartfelt speeches and tributes from leaders across political and civil society sectors, all of whom celebrated Amitolu as a beacon of integrity, activism and advocacy for the oppressed. Representing Oyetola, Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), described Amitolu as a man whose life and work embodied the highest ideals of integrity, honesty and dignity. He emphasised that Amitolu’s activism had consistently championed the causes of the downtrodden, making him a towering figure in the fight for human rights.

    “Comrade Amitolu Shittu’s journey as an activist is defined by his unyielding commitment to truth and justice,” Oyebamiji said. “His life and work are a living testament to the impact of integrity in the pursuit of a fairer, more just society.”

    Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who was represented by Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammed Abbah, commended Amitolu for his tireless defence of the people. He highlighted the celebrant’s resilience in fighting against injustice, even when facing personal challenges. “Amitolu’s dedication to the defence of human rights and justice has been unwavering,” said Egbetokun. “He deserves every recognition for his remarkable efforts in safeguarding the rights of Nigerians.”

    Comrade Isa Aremu, former Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), also lauded Amitolu’s relentless work for democracy, good governance and an egalitarian society. He reflected on Amitolu’s profound impact on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, noting that his commitment to justice had earned him the respect of many across the country. “At 60, Comrade Amitolu has established an indelible legacy, particularly in the fight for democracy and social justice in Nigeria,” Aremu stated. “His unwavering belief in an inclusive, just society remains a guiding light for us all.”

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    Peter Obi, represented by Comrade Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, spoke of Amitolu’s patriotism and nationalist spirit, emphasising his dedication to the unity and progress of Nigeria. Obi praised Amitolu’s character, humility and selflessness, noting that these qualities had earned him the admiration of people from all walks of life. “Comrade Amitolu is an embodiment of selflessness, courage and integrity,” Obi’s representative said. “His life’s work has been centred on the advancement of Nigeria and the well-being of its people, regardless of their ethnicity or background.”

    Other attendees, including APC chieftain Chief Shuaibu Oyedokun, Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Lekan Badmus, former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Adebayo Adeleke, and Aare Musulumi of Osogbo, Alhaji Gani Adekunle, all shared similar sentiments, highlighting Amitolu’s virtuous character and unwavering dedication to societal progress.

    As part of the celebration, six of Amitolu’s books were launched, each one offering a glimpse into his life’s work, struggles and commitment to human rights and justice. These books stand as a testament to his lifelong dedication to making Nigeria a better place for all its citizens. The event, filled with reflections and acknowledgments of Amitolu’s exceptional contributions, served as a reminder of his continued relevance in the fight for justice and equality in Nigeria. At 60, Comrade Shittu remains a towering figure in the ongoing struggle for a fairer, more just society.

  • BREAKING: FG targets 25% reduction on cost of port operations – Oyetola

    BREAKING: FG targets 25% reduction on cost of port operations – Oyetola

    The federal government has announced its plans to implement the National Single Window (NSW) in its bid to reduce the cost of doing business across tha nation’s ports by at least 25 per cent.

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adeboyega Oyetola disclosed this in Lagos on Tuesday.

    Speaking at the stakeholders’ forum on the establishment of the NSW in Lagos , Oyetola said the implementation of the Single Window System will enhance efficiency, potentially reducing the costs by at least 25 per cent.

    As highlighted by the World Bank, the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports can be up to 40 per cent higher than in other West African countries due to delays and administrative bottlenecks, leading to an estimated annual revenue loss of ₦2.5 trillion within the business community. 

    According to Oyrtola, “By streamlining operations, improving transparency, and minimizing delays, the system not only drives cost savings but also strengthens overall trade facilitation. The cumulative impact across all areas, including reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and greater transparency, ultimately contributes to the overall ease of doing business.”

    Oyetola, however, stated that the federal government is prioritising multimodal connectivity to boost trade and reduce transportation cost.

    According to him, the President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration is advancing multimodal connectivity by improving road, rail, and inland waterway links to and from the ports.

    The Minister said these improvements are targeted at reducing transportation costs, enhancing logistics, and boosting trade. 

    Oyetola speaking at the stakeholders’ forum on the establishment of the National Single Window (NSW) in Lagos, said his Ministry in collaboration with the Lagos State.

    “Government, cleared the age-long Apapa – Tincan – Mile 2 traffic for landside operations and provided tugboats, mooring boats, pilot cutters, bollards, and fenders across all port locations for effective seaside operations. 

    “We maximized crane productivity and ensured a reduced transit time for vessels and trucks. These led to a reduction in both the vessel and truck turn-around times. 

    “The vessel turn-around-time went down from an average of 7 days to an average of 5 days, while truck turn-around-time went from an average of 10 days to a few hours. But we are not resting on our oars, as our ultimate goal is to make Nigeria the hub of maritime in West Africa,” Oyetola  said.

    The Minister added that efforts are underway to revamp existing ports, with Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports as pilot projects, pointing out that the modernization would address the aged facilities nearing the end of their economic lifespan and enhance hinterland connectivity.

    “We are also encouraging private-sector participation in developing greenfield ports and other infrastructure projects. Additionally, the NPA has acquired two state-of-the-art tugboats to strengthen its fleet, with plans to procure more marine crafts to boost operational efficiency,” he said.

    He said further that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has commenced a strategic plan and modality by engaging its stakeholders looking at the best way to establish a National Flag Carrier through a Private Public Partnership (PPP), saying that the initiative aims to generate employment, reposition the maritime sector, and provide revenue streams for the government. 

    “Furthermore, arrangements for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) are being finalized to support the development of the shipping sector.”

    Speaking on the implementation of the NSW project, he said it is a vital initiative to enhance trade facilitation in Nigeria, saying that the initiative will undoubtedly raise awareness and enlighten participants on the benefits of NSW as the Government works to improve trade efficiency for the collective economic prosperity of all Nigerians. 

    “Today, we convene as partners in progress to explore how the implementation of the National Single Window system can streamline trade facilitation and catalyze the growth of our blue economy. 

    “The executive decision to implement the National Single Window system alongside the Port Community System (led by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy through the Nigerian Port Authority) marks a pivotal step in this direction, demonstrating the government’s commitment to modernizing trade processes and maximizing the utilization of our marine resources.

    “Nigeria’s marine and blue economy represents an untapped gold mine of opportunities. It encompasses a vast spectrum of activities—from maritime shipping and fisheries to renewable energy and coastal tourism,” he added.

    He cited that with an expansive coastline of 853 kilometers and a maritime area of over 46,000 square kilometers, Nigeria is strategically positioned to leverage these resources for sustainable economic growth. 

    “The marine and blue economy holds immense potential to contribute significantly to our GDP, create thousands of jobs, and drive regional and global trade.

    “Despite its immense potential, the marine and blue economy faces challenges, including inefficiencies in port operations, bureaucratic obstacles, and insufficient coordination among stakeholders, which have impeded its growth.

    “Addressing these challenges requires an efficient, integrated, and secure logistics ecosystem—a goal that the National Single Window system is poised to enable,” he stressed.

    The Minister noted that the NSW initiative is a pioneering cross-government system designed to streamline trade facilitation.

    “It simplifies trade processes by enabling stakeholders to seamlessly coordinate trade-related transactions across multiple government agencies through a unified electronic platform. 

    “This digital transformation eliminates redundancies, reduces processing times, and ensures seamless coordination among government agencies and private sector actors. In essence, it is the bedrock for efficiency and competitiveness in global trade.

    “Leveraging the implementation of a National Single Window for Nigeria in the trade industry aligns perfectly with our Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

    In his address, the Managing Director, of Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, said the implementation of NSW interconnects all stakeholders involved in foreign trade and enables them to perform trade procedures on one platform, adding that it provides a comprehensive online environment for all governmental and business users such as importers, exporters, commercial banks, carriers, Customs, ministries, and other government agencies to perform trade operations.

    Dantsoho said the Single Window operation is the global trade best practice for the electronic exchange of information relating to over 500 million TEU movements and billions of tonnes of cargo for sea, air, and land transport modes. 

    “This concrete move by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement the NSW in Nigeria is pivotal to deepening the competitiveness of our Ports and position the good people of Nigeria to reap greater benefits from global trade.

    “The purpose of the Port Community System (PCS) is primarily for Nigeria to comply with the dictates of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL) whose main objectives are to prevent unnecessary delays in maritime traffic, to aid cooperation between governments, and to secure the highest practicable degree of uniformity in formalities and other procedures,” he noted.

    He pointed out that in recognition of the importance of this noble objective, the NPA had ahead of time enlisted the technical guidance of the IMO for the deployment of the Port Community System (PCS), which is the precursor to the NSW, and only recently upon our fulfillment of the requirements, Nigeria was admitted as a member of the International Port Community System Association (IPCSA) to join top-class ports in the region, like Tangier Med Port of Morocco, Ghana, Togo, Ivory Coast, Benin Republic amongst others.

    “Furthermore, the Nigerian Ports Authority recognized the importance of Single Window and has planned and implemented its strategy and provided leadership within the Nigerian Ports Community. 

    He said: “the Authority has taken a very proactive approach to embracing ICT technologies in implementing a number of its internal activities. This is due to the belief that cargo operations in our Ports cannot meet International Standards without the Port Community System.

    Read Also: Osun monarch lauds Oyetola for empowering 150 women with start-up grants 

    “The National Single Window is a central piece in the modernization of our trade facilitation, and the Nigerian Ports Authority, under the supervision of His Excellency, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola CON, Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, is fully committed to its successful implementation,” he added.

    Dantsoho added that It is worthy of note that while repositioning Nigerian Ports to maintain regional and continental competitiveness, the Authority has embarked on process reengineering aimed at aligning the Authority’s functions with the objectives of the NSW and ensure parity with regional competitors, focusing on seamless data availability and enhanced transparency. 

    “I would like to emphasise that our mission is to position Nigeria as the transshipment hub in West Africa, and with our strategic location, a population of over 200 million people, and a large market, Nigerian Ports have the potential to become the leading transshipment hub in the African region.  

    “We also have the potential to serve as a transit port to land-locked countries since out of the 44 land-locked countries in the world, 16 are in Africa.  

    “However, this potential is currently constrained by infrastructure challenges and competition as neighboring countries continue to develop their port’s infrastructure. However, the upcoming Port Modernization projects aim to bridge this gap and ensure that our ports remain competitive with regional counterparts.  

    “There is no doubt that the implementation of the Port Community System is necessarily complex and, therefore, does not happen quickly. Consequently, the Nigerian Ports Authority has been consistent in its efforts since the year 2011 to fully operate the PCS,” Dantsoho said.

  • Osun monarch lauds Oyetola for empowering 150 women with start-up grants 

    Osun monarch lauds Oyetola for empowering 150 women with start-up grants 

    The Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan of Irepodun Local Government Area, Osun State, has commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for providing start-up grants to 150 women in his community.

    Speaking over the weekend in Ilobu during an empowerment programme sponsored by the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Olalekan Badmus, Oba Olaniyan described the initiative as a significant step towards alleviating poverty in the area.

    The monarch who was represented by Chief Tunji Laoye said: “I am very glad that despite that the minister had left the state after he served as governor, he still continues the good gesture in strengthening the micro business. 

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    “The sector is key to the economy of the nation and Oyetola through Badmus has extended this gesture to us in this council. I commend the minister by standing with the Renewed Hope Agenda.” 

    In his address, Badmus disclosed that 150 women benefitted from initiative of Oyetola empowerment named Ilerioluwa Empowerment. 

    Badmus represented by Dr Dare Adeyemi said: “Our aim is to lift about 4,000 residents of the state through several empowerments like scholarship, youth orientation programmes, grant to traders and many more. 

    “The reason for the grant for women is to ensure we strengthen our micro-economy. When this is done, we are indirectly tackling poverty level.”

  • Oyetola defends N12.2billion 2025 Marine and Blue Economy budget

    Oyetola defends N12.2billion 2025 Marine and Blue Economy budget

    …NASS Committee calls for dredging of River Niger, Lake Chad basin

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Tuesday defended the N12.2 billion budget proposal of the ministry for 2025.

    The ministry is proposing N11,770,533,003 for the capital budget and N453,856,327 for overhead.

    The budget was defended on Tuesday at the National Assembly before the Joint Committee of the Senate on Marine Transport and House Committees on Ports and Harbour, Marine Safety, Education and Administration; Inland Waterways and Committee on Shipping Services.

    The Minister also laid the budget of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Maritime Academy of Nigeria Oron and Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria before the Committee. 

    The Minister noted that the Ministry through the 2025 budget targets the provision of life jackets to the riverine communities in the states to boost safety of passengers. 

    He also said the Ministry hopes to replace rickety wooden boats used for commercial transport with standardized crafts with the 2025 budget.

    The Minister while disclosing plans to begin capital dredging at selected locations on some major rivers, added that the process requires huge funds.

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    The Minister said: “the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and its Agencies under the 2025 Budget seek to consolidate and sustain on the achievements and performances recorded in the immediate past year by focusing on ports infrastructural development, increased fish production, maritime safety and security, information technology deployment to improve operation and revenue generation, human capacity building and the effective technical and economic regulation to ensure the strengthening of blue economy in Nigeria.

    On some projects the ministry wants to embark on with the 2025 budget, Oyetola said: “As a quick response to the spate of boat mishaps on our inland waterways occasioned by increased traffic on waterways, the Ministry has targeted the provision of life jackets to the Riverine Communities in the states to boost the safety of passengers. Also, major programme to replace rickety wooden boats used for commercial transport with standardized crafts and capital dredging at selected locations on our major rivers are planned for 2025.

    “Dredging is desirable to ensure that the 10,000 kilometres of our waterways are navigable because currently, only about 3,800 kilometres are navigable. Water Transportation is cheaper and safer but we need to invest in the dredging to get the desired result we want for the sector.

    “Also, pursuant to its mandate and the charge given by Mr. President, the Ministry is developing Dry Ports at Ijebu-Ode and Moniya in Ogun State and Oyo State respectively. These IDPs are targeted for fast tracked delivery to decongest the Western Port System. Design consultancies for the project are on-going.

    “Quantum investment through the capital budget is necessary for the Ministry to deliver on its lofty mandate and potential. Greater budgetary provision is therefore advocated.  The proposed total Capital Budget of N11,770,533,003 and Overhead of N453,856,327 though inadequate is for your kind consideration.”

    Speaking on the performance of the 2024 budget, Oyetola said: “The total Capital Appropriation for the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2024 Budget is N10,848,512,984. The sum of N9,973,802,613 has been utilized/committed at the end of December, 2024. The remaining balance of N874,710,371 will be expended in the 1st Quarter of 2025.

     “In addition, the sum of N191,086,917 was appropriated for Overhead Expenditure. The sum of N191,086,917 was released up to the Month of December, 2024. the released amount was expended as at 27th December, 2024. The Ministry also received a Take-off Grant of N625,000,000 out of which the sum of N523,763,955 was committed on the Ministry’s activities. 

    “All activities related to the Fisheries Department were funded from this grant.

    He added that the Ministry was unable to access the 2024 Capital Appropriation of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, noting that in the 2025 Budget proposal, the Ministry is initiating major projects in the fisheries and aquaculture subsector to boost fish production.”

    He explained that the projects are deliberately tied to government capital budgets to guarantee fast tracked delivery and assured food security.

    The Chairman Senate Committee on Marine Transportation and Blue Economy, Sen. Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni called on the ministry to begin the process of dredging River Niger, Lake Chad Basin and other rivers in the country.

    The Senator while admitting that dredging was capital intensive noted that the process for dredging should commence immediately and be considered in the 2026 budget proposal. 

    He said: “We agree that the Ministry is grossly underfunded considering the projects it is expected to undertake, but as a committee, we feel you should use your position to attract funding and other opportunities to the Ministry.

    “The president appointed you a minister because he believes in your capacity. So, I charge you and the agencies under you to commence the fight for 2026 budget now, the process must start in order to accommodate dredging and other key projects in the budget of next year.”

  • 2025 marine budget blueprint for progress, says Oyetola

    2025 marine budget blueprint for progress, says Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on agencies under the ministry to align their 2025 budget proposals with the pillars of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and the 2021–2025 National Development Plan.

    Speaking at a budget session held yesterday, Oyetola emphasised that the proposals must prioritise impactful development to unlock the sector’s potential for sustainable economic growth.

    “Our fiscal strategy must reflect the ambitions outlined in our policy framework. We are tasked with ensuring that every naira allocated delivers a measurable impact,” the minister stated.

    He expressed optimism that the 2025 budget would not only meet the immediate needs of the ministry but also serve as a springboard for long-term national development.

    Oyetola described the marine and blue economy as a sector with “unparalleled potential for national development,” noting its ability to drive job creation, economic diversification, and environmental stewardship.

    Read Also: Maritime association hails Oyetola, NPA over career advancement, staff welfare 

    Aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the minister outlined key focus areas, including strengthening maritime security through investments in surveillance systems and law enforcement, expanding capacity in aquaculture and fishing ports while curbing illegal and unregulated fishing, and promoting oceanographic research, stock assessments, renewable marine energy as well as climate resilience technologies.

    The minister further emphasised the importance of the draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a “roadmap” for sustainable marine resource management, climate adaptation, and technological innovation.

    “This policy embodies our commitment to international best practices and sustainable development goals, particularly SDG 14, which emphasises the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources,” he added.

    Oyetola called for transparency, fiscal prudence, and strategic prioritisation in the budget process. “I hope that the 2025 budget will serve as a catalyst for sustainable marine resource management and long-term national economic growth,” he said.

    Experts have since hailed the budget framework as a step in the right direction. For instance, a maritime consultant, Dr Chukwuemeka Onoh, noted that: “The focus on security and renewable energy is critical for positioning Nigeria’s marine sector as a leader in Africa.”

    Meanwhile, an aquaculture specialist, Dr Grace Ekanem, said, “Expanding capacity in fisheries and tackling illegal practices will have a significant impact on food security and livelihoods.”

    With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and governance, the 2025 budget proposal aims to position Nigeria’s marine and blue economy as a catalyst for national progress. As Oyetola aptly put it, “The 2025 budget is not just about meeting immediate needs; it is about creating a sustainable future for Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.”

    The session was attended by leaders from key agencies, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, National Inland Waterways Authority, and Nigerian Shippers’ Council, among others. These stakeholders are expected to collaborate on implementing the ministry’s strategic initiatives.

  • Oyetola tasks NPA, NIMASA, NIWA, others to prioritise 2025 budget 

    Oyetola tasks NPA, NIMASA, NIWA, others to prioritise 2025 budget 

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has charged agencies under the Ministry to align and prioritise their 2025 budget proposals. 

    The Minister stated that the agencies should ensure massive and impactful development in line with the pillars of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy and the 2021-2025 National Development Plan. 

    The Minister disclosed this during the Ministry’s session with agencies to consider their 2025 budget proposals. 

    The agencies supervised by the Ministry include the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN). 

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    Others include the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria, the Nigeria Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, the National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research, the Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, and the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology. 

    The Minister, in a statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Anastasia Ogbonna, expressed optimism that the budget proposals will consolidate the ministry’s plan to develop Nigeria’s marine and blue economy potential. 

    Oyetola, while urging the agencies to demonstrate transparency, fiscal prudence, and strategic prioritization said: “Our fiscal strategy must reflect the ambitions outlined in our policy framework. We are tasked with ensuring that every naira allocated delivers a measurable impact.” 

    “I hope that the 2025 budget will not only provide for the immediate needs of this ministry and the agencies but will serve as a catalyst for sustainable marine resource management and long-term national economic growth.” 

    He also stated that the marine and blue economy sector holds unparalleled potential for national development as it offers a sustainable platform for economic growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship, adding that attaining these align with the key priority areas of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President as it relates to the marine and blue economy. 

    The Minister further stated that resources should be channelled towards strengthening the maritime domain through investments in surveillance systems, operations, and the enforcement of maritime laws. 

    He also highlighted the need to enhance capacity in aquaculture and fishing ports and to curb illegal and unregulated fishing activities in the sector. 

    He added that promoting oceanographic research, stock assessment, renewable marine energy, and climate resilience technologies should be at the forefront of the agencies’ efforts. 

    Regarding the draft National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, the Minister stated that the policy is not just a document but a roadmap that will guide collective efforts towards the sustainable management of marine resources, climate adaptation, technological innovation, and enhanced governance in the sector. 

    “This policy embodies our commitment to international best practices and sustainable development goals, particularly SDG 14, which emphasises the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.” 

  • Maritime association hails Oyetola, NPA over career advancement, staff welfare 

    Maritime association hails Oyetola, NPA over career advancement, staff welfare 

    The Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola and the Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho have  been commended by the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporation and Government Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) and the Maritime Workers Association of Nigeria (MWUN) for promoting career advancement and staff welfare in the maritime industry.

    In a letter signed on behalf of the two Workers’ Union and made available to The Nation by the SSASCGOC President Comrade Akinola Bodunde, the Unions expressed appreciation to the Minister for securing approval for the Dantsoho-led Management of the NPA to clear the age long backlog problem of employee stagnation by conducting promotion examination in one fell swoop to the admiration of the Union and  its members. 

    The letter reads in part: “Specifically, we appreciate the increase in productivity bonus, provision of end-of-year welfare items to staff and the review of the Financial  Guide to the Condition of Service which has comprehensively responded to our members’ yearnings for increase in response to inflationary trends”. 

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     Bodunde said further that , “on our part, we assure the management team of improved productivity, especially in achieving the Key performance indicators as stipulated in the Presidential/ Ministerial Performance Bond”. 

    The MD NPA however said, “our ability to address these issues in quick time is attributable to the unwavering support of the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy , Adegboyega Oyetola (CON) and the ever cooperative executive management team”.

    “Let me seize this moment to specially  commend the President- General of MWUN and Deputy President of the NLC, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju for his professionalism at ensuring industrial harmony and to assure the workers of continuous improvement, especially as the improved productivity that Management expects of the workforce continues to yield dividends for the national economy”. 

    It will be recalled that the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) had reported trade surplus for Q2 and Q3 2023 arising from improved exports transactions carried out on the platforms of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

  • Expect economic relief from Tinubu’s administration soon — Oyetola

    Expect economic relief from Tinubu’s administration soon — Oyetola

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has urged Nigerians to persevere over the economic realities in the country, describing the situation as a passing phase, after which a relief would suffice. 

    Oyetola gave this assurance during Friday prayer service at Egbeda Central Mosque, in the suburb of Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government, Osun State. 

    Speaking immediately after the obligatory two-rakat prayer, the Minister said the economic situation was only reactionary to previous policies of the succeeding governments which had to introduce Bulk Food Purchase policy in reaction to inflation resulting in high prices of food commodities. 

    The Minister, who recently distributed hundreds of bags of fertilizers to dry farmers in the area, said policies of the present administration were favourable to farmers with a few to ensuring surplus availability of farm produce for public use and consumption, urging farmers and youths in Nigeria to reciprocate this by prioritising farming. 

    Oyetola admonished the youths against drug addiction, gangsterism, idleness and indolence, urging them to make good use of the Student Loan policy of the present administration which provides access to interest-free loans as contained in Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, to get themselves educated. 

    The former Osun Governor, who started his elementary education from the same Egbeda community in Osun State, where he was raised as a young child, told the youths that he was able to attain pinnacle because of education. 

    He said: “I want to urge you all to exercise patience with this government. We know the present economic situation in the country is a bit hard, but it is a phase that will soon be over.

    “The present situation in the country is not peculiar to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Things were also not so easy even during the regime of President Sheu Shagari, as prices of food were unaffordable thus, the government had to introduce Bulk Food Purchase policy to cushion the effect. 

    “I urge our farmers to double efforts in their farming activities. Thank God, the policies of the present administration are so favourable to farmers. You know, I’m also a son of farmer, aside from the fact that my father is also the Chief Imam of this Central Mosque. 

    “I also urge and appeal to our youths to prioritize education. Make use of the provision of the interest-free education loans by the present administration. 

    “At the same time, I urge you to go into farming. Your education doesn’t stop you from farming. In fact, it will rather enable and equip you with technical know-how. You may, for instance, adopt mechanized farming. I sincerely advise you to take education and farming seriously, and please, shun gangsterism and hooliganism.” 

    The Chief Imam of Egbeda, Alhaji Hammed Oyetola, admonished Muslim faithful on the vanity and frivolity of this world, instilling fear of God in the worshippers of Islamic monotheism. 

    “No one can bestow whatever the Almighty Allah withholds, and nobody can withhold whatever Allah bestows. This is what everyone in this life, including worldly kings and kingmakers and those in the corridor of power should understand about God, who created the universe for the purpose of worship,” he said.

    Also, addressing the congregation, the Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV, who was on the Minister’s entourage to the Central Mosque, commended the federal government on different laudable policies, and the Minister over his donation of food items to the community. 

    The monarch however urged the beneficiaries to ensure equitable sharing of the items, and never to allow the distribution process degenerate into misunderstanding or crisis.