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Tag: Oyetola

  • LG crisis: Osun Rep member slams Adeleke over alleged blackmail of Tinubu, Oyetola, AGF

    LG crisis: Osun Rep member slams Adeleke over alleged blackmail of Tinubu, Oyetola, AGF

    A member of the House of Representatives representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Hon. Oluwole Oke, has criticised Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke for allegedly blackmailing President Bola Tinubu and key federal officials over the ongoing local government leadership crisis in the state.

    Oke, who chairs the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, condemned Adeleke’s actions, accusing him of deliberately causing hardship in the state by politicising the council leadership dispute.

    The crisis stems from conflicting mandates issued to local government executives. The Court of Appeal recently reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) officials elected in October 2022, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) conducted its council elections in February 2025, deepening the impasse.

    In response, the Osun State House of Assembly labelled the reinstated APC chairmen as impostors and called on President Tinubu to stop the Minister of Finance, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Attorney-General of the Federation, and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, from disbursing allocations to them.

    Reacting to the Assembly’s position, Oke said Adeleke’s administration is engaging in “blame games” rather than finding lasting solutions. He warned that the continued politicisation of the issue could undermine governance and public trust in Osun.

    He said, “Please stop blackmailing Mr President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Osun State APC Leader, Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and CBN Governor on this matter.

    “It is your Government that is inflicting pains on us, the beneficiaries of Local Government Administration in Osun State, by not doing the right thing.”

    He disclosed that “One of the reasons I left PDP under your (Adeleke) leadership is because you don’t listen to advice. Those people working with you do not mean well for you.

    “I spoke to you and advised you on what to do on the Court of Appeal Judgment reinstating elected APC Council Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and Councillors, but you ignored me. Only an illiterate lawyer will advise you contrary to what the Court of Appeal ruled. That PDP/OSSIEC approached the wrong Court. What else do you need to hear, sir?”

    Read Also: Ex-Osun IPAC chair slams Adeleke over probe of radio stations

    He noted that the window for the Osun Government to ask for a stay of execution and appeal the verdict reinstating APC excos at the Supreme Court is closing, and the beneficiaries will not go to court on the APP case on the matter.

    He advised that Adeleke should direct the Local Government workers to resume their duties and embrace the APC elected officials by working together.

    Equally, he advised the state electoral body to issue 180 days to conduct a fresh LG election if APC elected officials are not asking for completion of their 3-year Mandate.

    “All the PDP chairmanship aspirants, vice and councillors spent a fortune to participate in the ill-fated election, and most of them are now suffering hopelessly. The governor can add them to the list of his SAs or SSAs.”

  • Oyetola rallies Island nations for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid

    Oyetola rallies Island nations for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid

    Nigeria has stepped up its diplomatic campaign for a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council as Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola held strategic talks with leaders of small island nations during the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.

    The meetings, held on the sidelines of the global event, were part of the country’s push to secure election into Category C of the IMO Council later this year.

    Oyetola met separately with Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape, Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Dr. Joyelle Clarke, and Tuvalu’s Minister of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Maina Vakafua Talia.

    The meetings underscore Nigeria’s commitment to building alliances with countries that, though geographically distant, share common vulnerabilities and aspirations within the global maritime community.

    According to the minister, “Nigeria’s quest for a seat on the IMO Council is not driven by ambition alone but by a desire to ensure greater representation for African nations, developing countries, and vulnerable coastal and island states in global maritime decision-making.”

    He assured Nigeria would be a reliable ally, advocating for stronger global commitments to maritime decarbonisation.

    He noted that Nigeria’s dedication to these principles is underscored by the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 by President Bola Tinubu. This move, he explained, reflects Nigeria’s renewed commitment to sustainable ocean governance, blue economic growth, and building resilience against climate change.

    Oyetola described how the country is reimagining its relationship with the sea through initiatives ranging from port modernisation and enhanced maritime security to ocean sustainability and the development of coastal communities.

    “Nigeria is not merely seeking isolation support but is extending an offer of partnership. The vision for an IMO Council is one that actively protects the interests of the most vulnerable nations,” he stated, pledging that the country would use its voice, its vote, and its regional influence to advocate for the priorities of developing nations.

    Read Also: Oyetola donates life jackets to LASWA

    He indicated the country’s preparedness to push for a more equitable maritime regulatory framework that acknowledges disparities in national capacities, supports accessible climate-smart shipping technologies, and fosters practical cooperation in developing sustainable blue economies between island nations and African coastal states like Nigeria.

    Oyetola further reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to serve as a credible voice for developing nations within the international maritime system, forging alliances based on shared challenges and mutual interests.

    As the IMO Council elections approach, Nigeria is positioning itself as a Category C candidate committed to inclusivity, equity, and climate-resilient maritime development in an increasingly interconnected and environmentally vulnerable world.

  • Nigeria will continue to protect ocean resources, says Oyetola

    Nigeria will continue to protect ocean resources, says Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said Nigeria remains committed to ensuring the protection and sustainable management of ocean resources and will continue to play a pivotal role in driving inclusive, science-based, and economically viable ocean solutions.

    Oyetola made this known at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco, where he represented President Bola Tinubu .

    The special event, held ahead of the United Nations (UN) Oceans Conference in Nice, France, was hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco.

    The event was held at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. It drew significant international attention, with the presence of key figures such as Prince William, Prince of Wales; French President, Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

    Many other leaders, alongside hundreds of global delegates, also participated in the forum.

    Themed around a regenerative blue economy and sustainable ocean finance, the gathering emphasized the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable use of ocean resources.

    Leaders discussed accelerating the transition to a resilient ocean economy, scaling up funding for SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and aligning marine science with policymaking to safeguard the planet’s largest ecosystem.

    Read Also: Tinubu committed to re-evaluation of public policies for greater results – Oyetola

    At the event, Oyetola explained that Nigeria’s participation underscored the country’s growing commitment to ocean governance, maritime sustainability, and climate adaptation through his Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

    As the sector continues to play a critical role in economic diversification and environmental protection, Oyetola’s presence reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to engage actively on global platforms and collaborate with international partners to foster innovation, investment, and sustainable practices in its coastal and marine sectors.

    On the sidelines of the event, Oyetola engaged with other leaders, technical experts, and institutional leaders to explore avenues for increased cooperation in blue economy development, marine conservation, and capacity building across the West and Central African sub-region.

    Oyetola’s participation, it was gathered, further positioned Nigeria as a stakeholder in shaping ocean governance policies ahead of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, where key agreements and commitments to expand marine protected areas are expected to be discussed.

  • Tinubu committed to re-evaluation of public policies for greater results – Oyetola

    Tinubu committed to re-evaluation of public policies for greater results – Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Monday assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commenced engagement and re-evaluation of public policies for greater results on the socioeconomic reality of the country.

    This is just as he begged Nigerians to collectively support the lofty initiatives of the federal government, where policies and programmes that directly benefit the masses are strengthened for the betterment of all and sundry.

    Speaking at the first International Conference on Public Policy, Governance and Development Agenda organised by the Department of Public Administration of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, tagged “Building a Promising Future in Africa Through Policy Reevaluate”, the minister harped on the need to initiate an intellectual revolution that would complement Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The minister, who was represented by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, said, “President Tinubu’s record in the last two years has revealed him as an unapologetic reformist who deserves collective support as a nation, hence the need for the citizens to further give their best support to the current administration in the country.”

    He advocated the need to confront the knotty reality through reform that requires not just government courage, but citizen’s patience, and intellectual honesty to endure transitional hardships for lasting gains.

    Oyetola averred that it has become imperative as a people and country to sit back and collectively re-evaluate position, noting that town-and-gown relationship must be strengthened to a point that is devoid of mutual suspicion but with greater respect for all concerned.

    Read Also: Oyetola appoints Aderogba CEO of regional maritime development bank

    According to him, “If we desire to see our continent in the league of others with thriving economies and other societies where we attract any development-focused individuals, groups, states and countries within the continent of Africa.

    “Africa, and particularly Nigeria, are at a point where real evaluation and stock-taking exercises should happen at all levels as Nigeria has a population that is young, energetic, and growing within a global economic space that is competitive”, Oyetola added.

  • Oyetola’s ex-aide, APC chieftain drag IGP, Adeleke’s aide to court over alleged threat to life

    Oyetola’s ex-aide, APC chieftain drag IGP, Adeleke’s aide to court over alleged threat to life

    • Demands N11m compensation

    The former Special Adviser Education under the administration of Adegboyega Oyetola, Jamiu Olawumi and a leader of All Progressives Congress(APC), Adebayo Adedeji have dragged Governor Ademola Adeleke’s aide, Wale Bolorunduro and Inspector General of Police to Federal High Court, Osogbo, Osun State, over alleged threat to life.

    The duo in suit number FHC/OS/CS/106/2025 joined one Inspector Nancy with Bolorunduro who had served under Rauf Aregbesola as finance commissioner after which Adeleke appointed him as Chairman of Living Trust Mortgage Bank.

    In the suit filed on May 22nd, 2025, Olawumi and Adedeji noted that their fundamental rights were infringed upon by the respondents’ serial police invitations between the 12, 13, 14, and 15 days of May 2025 and to this day over allegations of cyberstalking without providing any proof of evidence to substantiate, which constitutes a threat to life, harassment, and intimidation.

    Read Also: Ilorin crash: NSIB recovers data card as onsite probe begins

    They stated that the action contravened Sections 33, 34, 35, 37, 41, and 46 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, praying the court to declare that such action was illegal, null, and void.

    They sought four reliefs as they prayed to the court to order respondents to pay the sum of N5million to applicants for the false allegation with intent to traumatize and defame them.

    They also demanded an order directing the respondents to pay N6million and tender a public apology to them for the psychological, emotional and mental torture of both the applicants and their family members as a result of their frequent harassment, intimidation, defamation and infraction on the right to dignity and privacy of the applicants occasioning an illegal and unconstitutional violation of their fundamental rights.

  • Oyetola appoints Aderogba CEO of regional maritime development bank

    Oyetola appoints Aderogba CEO of regional maritime development bank

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has announced the appointment of Mr. Adeniran Aderogba, as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Regional Maritime Development Bank (RMDB).

    The Minister also announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved for Nigeria to host the Bank.

    According to a statement by the media aide to the minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the approval marks the takeoff of a project that has been in the works since 2009, when member states of the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) approved the establishment of the bank. 

    Oyetola stated, “This is a moment of great significance for Nigeria and the entire West and Central African sub-region. After 16 years of waiting, the Regional Maritime Development Bank is finally taking off, thanks to the decisive leadership of President Tinubu. His approval not only breaks a longstanding deadlock but also reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration, maritime development, and economic cooperation.” 

    The Regional Maritime Development Bank is envisioned as a dedicated financial institution that will provide long-term funding solutions for port infrastructure, fleet acquisition, shipping logistics, and intermodal transport systems. 

    It is an initiative aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure development, inclusive economic growth, and regional partnership. 

    The Minister said Mr. Aderogba brings over three decades of strategic experience in maritime administration, finance, and investment. 

    “His appointment is a bold and competent choice that will steer the bank from conception to impact”.

    Aderogba’s career spans the public and private sectors. 

    According to the statement, he previously served as Executive Director, Finance and Administration at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and was later appointed Acting Director General of the agency. 

    “In the financial sector, he held senior leadership roles at First Atlantic Bank Plc and MBC International Bank Ltd, where he oversaw investment banking and structured trade finance. 

    “He is also the founder of CLG Securities Limited, a financial advisory and investment services firm. Over his career, he has led transactions exceeding US$5 billion across diverse sectors, including landmark deals recognized internationally. 

    Read Also: Oyetola seeks France’s support for Nigeria’s IMO council bid

    “Mr. Aderogba also began his career with KPMG, where he gained foundational experience in auditing and financial consulting. A respected thought leader in financial markets, Mr. Aderogba has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s financial infrastructure, helping to introduce critical instruments such as the Nigerian Inter-Bank Offered Rate (NIBOR) and the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Fixing (NiFEX). He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), a graduate of the University of Lagos, and currently serves on the advisory board of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council. 

    Oyetola said the appointment of Aderogba and the operationalization of the RMDB will catalyze development, boost trade, and unlock funding for critical maritime infrastructure.

    “This achievement is yet another testament to President Tinubu’s unwavering resolve to deliver on long-standing commitments and drive transformative change across the region.” 

    The statement noted that Aderogba’s appointment has been duly communicated to him through the office of the Director of Maritime Safety and Security, Mr. Babatunde Bombata. 

  • Oyetola seeks France’s support for Nigeria’s IMO council bid

    Oyetola seeks France’s support for Nigeria’s IMO council bid

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, on the need to deepening maritime and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    Adegboyega hosted the Ambassador in his office in Abuja.

    The engagement came as Nigeria intensifies its campaign for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, an ambition the Minister firmly anchored during the meeting.

    Ambassador Fonbaustier, who was accompanied by Ms. Alice Ellenbogen, Political Counsellor at the French Embassy in Nigeria, was in the Ministry to discuss Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming World Oceans Day celebrations and the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), scheduled to take place in Nice, France, from June 8 to 13, 2025.

    Minister Oyetola is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the event on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    During the meeting, Oyetola made a strong case for France’s support for Nigeria’s bid to secure a seat in Category C of the IMO Council later this year. He emphasised that Nigeria, as the leading maritime nation in West and Central Africa and a gateway to the Gulf of Guinea, has played a pivotal role in advancing maritime safety, regional security, and ocean governance. He stated that Nigeria’s membership in the IMO Council would reinforce its contributions to international maritime regulation and sustainability, especially at a time when global collaboration is critical to addressing the complex challenges facing the world’s oceans.

    READ ALSO: Seyi Tinubu and sirens of hypocrisy

    Oyetola informed the French envoy of the recent approval of Nigeria’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council. The new policy, he said, provides a comprehensive framework to guide the sustainable development of Nigeria’s marine resources, stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and promote environmental protection. He explained that the policy aligns with the global ocean agenda and supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 14, which seeks to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

    The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s landmark achievements in maritime security, particularly in combating piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea. He noted that through coordinated initiatives such as the Deep Blue Project and enhanced inter-agency collaboration, Nigeria has eliminated piracy incidents, transforming the Gulf of Guinea into a more secure maritime corridor for international shipping and trade.

    Discussions also focused on Nigeria’s active participation in the forthcoming World Oceans Day and the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference. Building on the outcomes of the first two editions in 2017 and 2022, the third conference, to be co-chaired by France and Costa Rica, will convene under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.”

    The conference in Nice is expected to generate concrete commitments and mobilize science-based solutions and financing toward the sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

    Oyetola reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to the conference and stressed the country’s commitment to global cooperation in advancing ocean health, maritime security, and blue economy innovation. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and for entrusting him with the responsibility of representing Nigeria at such a critical global forum.

    In response, Fonbaustier praised the decision of President Tinubu to participate in UNOC3 through the leadership of Minister Oyetola. The Ambassador noted that France looks forward to Nigeria’s robust engagement at the conference and to furthering bilateral cooperation in marine sustainability, security, and development.

    The meeting marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s maritime diplomacy and underscores the strategic importance of international collaboration as nations prepare to convene in Nice to chart a new course for the future of the ocean.

  • Oyetola rallies France for Nigeria’s IMO bid

    Oyetola rallies France for Nigeria’s IMO bid

    As Nigeria intensifies its campaign for a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola has called on France to support the country’s bid for Category C membership.

    Receiving the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, in Abuja yesterday, Oyetola underscored the strategic importance of Nigeria’s inclusion in the IMO Council, citing the country’s leadership role in West and Central Africa’s maritime sector and its contributions to ocean governance and security in the Gulf of Guinea.

    “Nigeria’s inclusion in the IMO Council will reinforce our efforts in maritime safety, regional security, and sustainable ocean governance. We are not just a major player in Africa; we are a committed partner in shaping global maritime policy,” the minister said.

    The visit by Fonbaustier and Political Counsellor Alice Ellenbogen came ahead of Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming World Oceans Day celebrations and the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which will be hosted by France and Costa Rica in Nice from June 8–13, 2025. Oyetola is expected to lead the country’s delegation to the conference on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

    Read Also: Oyetola signs performance bonds with heads of NIMASA, others

    During their meeting, Oyetola highlighted the recent approval of a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, which he said “provides a comprehensive framework to sustainably develop our marine resources, stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and protect the environment.”

    He added that the policy aligns with global commitments such as Sustainable Development Goal 14, focused on conserving and sustainably using the oceans and marine resources.

    On maritime security, Oyetola pointed to the country’s success in curbing piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea, attributing the progress to initiatives like the Deep Blue Project and improved inter-agency collaboration.

    “We have transformed the Gulf of Guinea from a piracy hotspot into a safe corridor for international shipping. This is a major achievement that supports global maritime trade,” he noted.

    Fonbaustier commended the President’s decision to delegate Oyetola to lead Nigeria’s team to UNOC3 and welcomed the nation’s proactive role in global maritime discussions.

    “We appreciate Nigeria’s commitment to the ocean agenda. France looks forward to working closely with your country at UNOC3 and beyond, particularly in marine sustainability and security,” he said.

    The Nice conference, themed “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean,” is expected to produce new commitments and mobilise solutions for the sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

    With its pitch for IMO Council membership and active engagement in global ocean diplomacy, Nigeria is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of maritime governance.

  • Osun LG: APC chieftain condemns report against Oyetola, demands justice for slain chairman

    Osun LG: APC chieftain condemns report against Oyetola, demands justice for slain chairman

    A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Ijesa land, Adebayo Adedeji, has condemned a media report against the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, over the death of reinstated Irewole Local Government Chairman, Remi Abass.

    Adedeji, while calling for justice for the slain council boss, described the report as “journalism of bitterness,” accusing the media outlet of misinforming the public and attempting to incite hatred against Oyetola.

    The Nation recalls that Abass was brutally murdered amid the crisis surrounding the control of local councils in Osun State after his reinstatement by the Appeal Court. Seven suspects were reportedly arrested in connection with the killing.

    Read Also: Oyetola demands results as marine economy chiefs sign accountability pact

    One of the suspects, identified as Ademola, was said to have died in police custody, prompting a media outfit to allege that Oyetola ordered his arrest over the council election dispute.

    Adedeji debunked the claim, stating that Abass was attacked by political thugs at the council secretariat upon his return to office. 

    He also referenced a circulating video in which a PDP chieftain is seen speaking about the presence of fierce-looking men around the area shortly before the murder occurred.

    “Following the incident, a formal complaint by the family of slain politician was made to the police who swung into action and got a number of suspects arrested, including some PDP thugs. One Jooda, Ademola and others were arrested, it is unfortunate that Sahara Reporter politicise the dastard act to water down the criminal case already before a competent court

    “We are not just demanding for justice for Remi Abass but also for Saheed Oyegunju that was also killed in that similar circumstance in the same Ikire.”

  • Oyetola signs performance bonds with heads of NIMASA, others

    Oyetola signs performance bonds with heads of NIMASA, others

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has signed the performance bond with heads of agencies under the supervision of the ministry as part of measures to ensure full implementation of the Marine and Blue Economy Policy.

    The bond was signed in Abuja yesterday at a two-day sectoral retreat for top management staff of the ministry and its agencies.

    Speaking at the event, the minister who stated that the bond was a reflection of the ministry’s collective commitment to accountability, results, and service excellence, reaffirmed his commitment to the full and accelerated implementation of the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

    He tasked the top management staff of the ministry and its agencies to recommit themselves to effective leadership, inter-agency collaboration, and measurable performance outcomes.

    Oyetola revealed that the marine and blue economy has been placed at the forefront of the federal government’s economic growth agenda under the Renewed Hope framework, adding that it is incumbent on the ministry’s leadership to drive the vision with urgency and discipline.

    He described the retreat as a defining moment for reflection, realignment, and purposeful engagement, adding that it was a crucial opportunity to evaluate the sector’s direction and to reposition it for impactful delivery in line with national expectations.

    “The signing of performance bonds must reflect practical, measurable commitments. I expect each agency to define and pursue realistic targets in areas such as Increasing the Marine and Blue Economy’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP within a defined timeframe and creating new jobs across core sub-sectors in the next 12–24 months.

    “Enhancing throughput across our ports and terminals, improving the compliance environment, and boosting revenue from maritime activities should be the focus,”, Oyetola said on the essence of the bond, adding that the goals will be tracked and reviewed.

    “Monitoring mechanisms must be institutionalised to assess progress quarterly, and reporting structures must be strengthened for transparency and accountability,” he explained.

    Highlighting his expectations following the bond signed, the Minister said: “We must eliminate duplication, align priorities, and work as a single ecosystem and adopt technology and data-driven management from port operations to fisheries monitoring.”

    Read Also: Oyetola moves to scrap cabotage waivers for foreign ships

    The minister also highlighted recent milestones, including ongoing efforts to modernise port infrastructure, implementation of the national single window platform, improvements in port efficiency, enhanced maritime security, progress in aquaculture and fisheries, and the commencement of the long-anticipated disbursement process of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF).

    He added that the recent approval of the national policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council is a foundational achievement that sets the strategic framework for long-term sectoral transformation.

    Oyetola also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, describing it as a strategic national objective.

    He stressed that the Ministry would continue to lead on diplomatic engagement and international outreach, but that every agency must play its part in showcasing Nigeria’s readiness to continue to lead and contribute meaningfully to global maritime affairs.

    The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Olufemi Oloruntola, described the retreat as a critical platform for identifying and resolving the barriers to effective execution, strengthening inter-agency synergy, and defining the specific steps needed to position the Marine and Blue Economy as a major driver of national development in alignment with global trends.

    He noted that the performance bonds signed by heads of agencies would be tied to clearly defined Key Performance Indicators (KPI