The World Bank has shown interest in working with Nigeria’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to improve the country’s maritime sector.
The World Bank’s team, led by Ms. Lia Sieghart, visited the minister of the newly formed ministry, Adegboyega Oyetola. They came to discuss the Nigerian government’s plans to develop a sustainable marine sector, with a focus on fisheries, and to explore how the World Bank could assist with their expertise.
Ms. Sieghart praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating this ministry, indicating that it shows the government’s commitment to enhancing the sector.
In response, Minister Oyetola thanked the World Bank team for the visit. He shared that the ministry is working to map Nigeria’s marine and Blue Economy resources, with a particular focus on fisheries and aquaculture, which are top priorities.
The minister explained that the ministry is taking steps to better regulate the fishing industry, including designating specific terminals for fishing activities. The goal is to create a sustainable fishing industry that appeals to young people and reduces Nigeria’s reliance on fish imports by boosting local production.
He expressed the ministry’s readiness to partner with the World Bank to achieve these goals.
“Fishery is the flagship of ministry. We are doing everything to regulate the activities in that sector.
“We are designating terminals for fishing activities. We want to do a sustainable fishery programme on a sustainable basis and make it attractive to the youths.
“We intend to reduce importation and encourage production here, in Nigeria. Therefore, we are willing and ready to have you support our efforts, so as to realise our vision for the ministry,“ Oyetola said.
The meeting was also attended by key figures from the ministry, including Permanent Secretary Oloruntola Olufemi, Director of Maritime Safety and Security Babatunde Bombata, and Technical Aide Prof. Busayo Fakinlede.
