By Roland Ekama
In a vivid celebration of World Maritime Day 2025 themed “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” Nigeria’s Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, alongside maritime leaders, ignited a powerful call to action to safeguard the ocean while unveiling bold plans to elevate Nigeria’s maritime sector into a sustainable economic powerhouse.
Oyetola underscored the ocean’s critical role in global trade, environmental health, and livelihoods, warning of threats from pollution and climate change. Highlighting transformative government initiatives — from cutting-edge port upgrades to renewable ocean energy projects — he painted the blue economy as Nigeria’s vibrant future beyond oil and gas.
Echoing the urgency to turn stewardship into tangible outcomes, the Minister rallied stakeholders and the world community for intensified cooperation and innovation to protect this vast resource that “produces 80 percent of Earth’s oxygen” and fuels “over 80 percent of global trade.”
“The ocean, covering more than 70 percent of our planet, produces up to 80 percent of the Earth’s oxygen, sustains billions of livelihoods, and carries over 80 percent of global trade. Yet it is under mounting threat — from pollution, overfishing, climate change and neglect. The message is clear: we must be stewards, not exploiters,” the Minister declared.
Oyetola highlighted progress under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including modernisation of port infrastructure, adoption of sustainable maritime policies, and stronger regional frameworks for security and trade. He also pointed to the blue economy as a new frontier for diversification beyond oil and gas.
“From renewable ocean energy and marine biotechnology to sustainable aquaculture, the opportunities are vast. Our vision is to harness these possibilities to make the sector a leading contributor to Nigeria’s economy,” he said.
The Minister extended a special invitation to the diplomatic community, noting that “the maritime sector is a natural platform for international cooperation, and diplomacy is its strongest anchor.”
Oyetola urged Nigerians, maritime stakeholders, and the international community to recommit to protecting ocean resources and ensuring sustainability for future generations.
“On this World Maritime Day, let us all renew our pledge to protect the ocean and harness its promise wisely and responsibly. Our obligation is to safeguard it. Our opportunity is to transform it for the benefit of generations to come,” he concluded.
The event in also featured accolades for young essayists and heartfelt addresses, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to ocean sustainability, maritime security, and eco-friendly development a defining moment signaling the nation’s maritime renaissance underpinned by resilience, growth, and green innovation.
Goodwill addresses were delivered by various stakeholders at the event. Prizes were also presented to school pupils and university undergraduates who won the essay competitions organised in commemoration of the Day.
The World Maritime Day, established by the International Maritime Organization, is celebrated annually to highlight the importance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment.
