The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed his commitment to the full implementation of the national policy on marine and blue economy, calling on senior officials and agency heads to demonstrate effective leadership.

In a signed statement by the ministry, Oyetola urged senior officials of the Ministry and its agencies to recommit themselves to effective leadership, inter-agency collaboration, and measurable performance outcomes.

According to the statement, “The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the full and accelerated implementation of the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.”

Describing the event as a “defining moment for reflection, realignment, and purposeful engagement,” Oyetola emphasised that the gathering was not a routine exercise but “a crucial opportunity to evaluate the sector’s direction and to reposition it for impactful delivery in line with national expectations.”

Highlighting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the minister noted that the Marine and Blue Economy sector had been placed at the heart of the nation’s economic growth strategy.

He pointed to significant achievements already underway, including port infrastructure modernization, enhanced port efficiency, maritime security improvements, aquaculture and fisheries development, and the commencement of the long-awaited disbursement process of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund.

He stated that the recent approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council was “a foundational achievement that sets the strategic framework for long-term sectoral transformation.”

With the focus now on implementation, Oyetola challenged the Ministry and its agencies to “fully internalise the policy’s strategic priorities and translate them into actionable programmes.”

He called for disciplined execution built on coordination, technology adoption, transparency, environmental stewardship, and institutional accountability.

He further emphasised the seriousness of the retreat’s performance bonds, saying they must not be seen as symbolic.

“Treat the Performance Bonds signed during the retreat not as symbolic gestures, but as serious commitments to deliver concrete, time-bound outcomes that enhance the sector’s contribution to GDP, expand job creation, increase port throughput, and improve regulatory compliance and revenue mobilisation,” he stated.

Oyetola also stressed the importance of Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation Council, calling it “a strategic national objective.” He underscored the role of the ministry in leading diplomatic efforts while encouraging every agency to contribute actively to the country’s international maritime standing.