Nation

Marine /Blue Economy Ministry will Strengthen our Fragile Economy- H.E. Tamuno

Published

9 months ago

August 20, 2023

Adebayo

The current Nigerian High Commissioner to Jamaica, Belize, Haiti and the
Dominican Republic, and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the
International Seabed Authority (ISA), H.E Dr. Maureen P. Tamuno, has
extolled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over establishing the Marine and
Blue Economy Ministry and appointing Adegboyega Oyetola as the
minister. She noted that the creation of the Ministry would go a long way in
enhancing emerging areas of our Economy.
In a strategic move that underscores a commitment to sustainable
development goals and environmental stewardship, the recent
establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by President
Tinubu has drawn praise from citizens and experts alike. This visionary
decision reflects a forward-thinking approach to economic growth and
showcases a dedication to preserving the invaluable marine ecosystems
that define our nation. The establishment of this ministry is a testament to
the administration’s commitment to fostering a prosperous, resilient, and
environmentally conscious country.
Ambassador Tamuno stated that the implications of this step are far-
reaching as the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry holds the potential to
drive Nigeria’s economy and innovation, create jobs, and enhance our
nation’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Equally significant is the Ministry’s role in addressing pressing
environmental challenges. Oceans, which cover more than 70% of the
Earth’s surface, are under considerable threat from pollution, over-
exploitation, and the impacts of climate change, as seen in our coastal
areas and hinterland. President Tinubu is steadfastly committed to
combatting these issues head-on by dedicating a specific ministry to the
marine and blue Economy.
Moreover, this decision resonates with global commitments such as the
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and the Paris

Agreement, which emphasize the importance of sustainable ocean
management. President Tinubu aligns our country’s trajectory with
international efforts to safeguard our planet’s oceans for current and future
generations by prioritizing the marine and blue Economy.
It is worth noting that Ambassador Tamuno, in October 2022, employed her
diplomatic capabilities and successfully organize a three-day summit in
collaboration with the International Seabed Authority in Abuja. The event
centered on the overarching theme of “Promotion of the sustainable
development of Africa’s deep-seabed Resources in Support of Africa’s Blue
Economy. The event was well attended by A-list personalities that included
the Secretary-General, International Seabed Authority, Michael Lodge;
Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; Chief of
Naval Staff, as well as Experts and Senior representatives from Nigeria,
Comoros, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Sao Tome and Principe and Uganda.
The outcomes of the workshop have informed Nigeria to initiate
preparations for securing a contract in the deep seabed to explore minerals
on the seabed beyond national jurisdiction. Nigeria will be the inaugural
African nation to secure the contract.
Tamuno, who also Chairs the Informal Working Group on Inspection,
Compliance, and Enforcement in the ISA, stated that its time for the
government and corporate organizations to key into the enormous
economic opportunities available as over thirty Contracts have already
been awarded to other member states.
As citizens, she said we must applaud President Tinubu’s dedication to
advancing our country’s economic interests while safeguarding our natural
heritage. The establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry
stands as a testament to the President’s visionary leadership and
commitment to fostering a sustainable, prosperous, and environmentally
conscious nation.
Amb Tamuno concluded that in the grand scheme, this new chapter in our
country’s history is not just about creating a ministry—it’s about forging a
path toward a more harmonious relationship between human activity and
nature. As the initiatives of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry unfold,
we can look forward to witnessing a transformation that leaves an indelible
mark on our nation’s legacy.

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Nation

An Icon of Service: NATCOM boss, Otunba Adejare Adegbenro’s Leadership Legacy

Published

7 days ago

April 25, 2024

Adebayo

Adegbenro

In the intricate mosaic of Nigeria’s societal fabric, Otunba Adejare Adegbenro stands as a beacon of commitment, resilience, and service.

Born on March 6th, 1973, in Lagos, he draws from a lineage steeped in political legacy, being the grandson of the late Premier of Western Region, Alhaji Daudu Sooroye Adegbenro. Raised in a family that values service to the community, Otunba Adegbenro has carved his path as a distinguished figure in Nigerian society.

The culmination of his familial heritage and dedication to community service was marked by his installation as the first Otunba Laje of Owu Kingdom in Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria.

This historic event, which took place on January 20th, 2018, under the auspices of His Royal Majesty Oba Olusanya Dosunmu II, traditional ruler of Owu kingdom, reinforced Otunba Adegbenro’s deep-rooted ties to his cultural heritage and commitment to uplifting his people.

Beyond his traditional titles, his influence extends globally, with his appointment as High Commissioner by the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), where he spearheads foreign special missions aimed at preventing illegal migration and human trafficking. This appointment is a testament of his reputation as a renowned security expert and industrialist, whose expertise transcends national borders.

In his role as the acting Director-General of the National Commission against the Proliferation of Arms, Light Weapons, and Pipeline Vandalism (NATCOM), Otunba Adegbenro has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to combating threats to national security. His vast experience in security consultancy and supply of security gadgets has positioned him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s security landscape.

However, Otunba Laje of Owu Kingdom’s contributions extend beyond the realm of security.

Through his foundation, the Otunba Adejare Adegbenro Foundation (OAAF), he channels his resources towards uplifting the less privileged in society. With initiatives ranging from the provision of boreholes to communities lacking access to clean water, to scholarships for deserving students, he exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and communal solidarity.

Reflecting on his journey, Otunba Adegbenro once acknowledged the challenges he has faced, from navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship to confronting societal stereotypes.

Yet, through it all, he remains resolute in his commitment to service and upliftment. His philosophy, rooted in faith and compassion, drives him to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, regardless of obstacles encountered along the way.

Otunba Adejare Adegbenro stands as a testament to the power of leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the common good. In him, Nigerians find not only a visionary leader but a compassionate steward of progress, whose impact reverberates far beyond the shores of his homeland.

Nation

PTD, NUPENG, deny purported strike action

Published

5 months ago

November 20, 2023

Adebayo

The Petroleum Tankers Drivers (PTD) of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) has denied the news making the rounds that it will exit the umbrella body and embark on a nationwide protest to enforce the resignation of the NUPENG’s President, Williams Akporeha and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale.

The statement which was credited to one Gbenga Olawale who was said to be a PTD Ibadan depot ex-officio. He directed in the statement that PTD members across the country should move with leaves in front of their trucks to warn NUPENG and police against interference and incessant harassment of their leaders.

However in a swift response to the statement of the purported unrest, the National Chairman of the PTD Comrade Augustine Egbon dismissed any form of planned protest.
According to the statement by Egbon he urge the public to disregard any protest statement, in his words “I wish to alert the general public of the antics of some desperate and mischievous individuals to cause unfounded and dangerous panic in the supply chain of Petroleum Products distribution in the Country through spreading of fake and false news items.

‘The Petroleum Tanker Drivers are not embarking on any form of protest and we are determined to continue our services to the nation and wholeheartedly support the efforts of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to put our economy on the right track for the good of all of us” He said.
He declared further that there is no division in their Union and the Branch of Petroleum Tanker Drivers. As all members are fully committed and united in their collective struggles as believe that workers united, can never be defeated.

”The general public are implored to ignore these mischief makers and Security Agencies are hereby called upon to fully investigate this panic creating news items as the citizens are already going through enough tough times and situations.’ He added.

Sources within the Ibadan Branch of the PTD have also revealed those behind the news of the protest are not original members of the Union, a member who would not like to be mentioned explained that Gbenga Olawale and Adekunle Rufai are not bonafide members of the PTD and that their names are not on the list of the Ibadan depot executives of the PTD and also not on the list of ex-officio of the PTD as they claimed.

The crisis was due to the issues emanating from the outcome of the leadership election into the umbrella union the NUPENG, where Williams Akporeha and Afolabi Olawale, emerged as President and General Secretary as Against Lucky Osusan and Dayyabu Garga being supported by another group. The crisis is to solicit legitimacy for their various faction even amongst the PTD branch

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