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