Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, says that Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters in the last three years
Speaking at the One-Day Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement on Thursday in Lagos, Mr. Oyetola said that the zero piracy incident within the period under review was achieved through the Deep Blue Project and that the Nigerian government has concluded plans to revive fishing terminals.
According to the minister, maritime security remains central to the Nigerian government’s mandate.
“Through the Deep Blue Project, Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for three consecutive years,” Oyetola said.
He emphasised that the achievement has earned the country commendation from the international community and contributed to regional maritime stability.
The minister explained that the ministry has concluded plans to “revive critical fishing terminals, automate licensing systems, and incentivise responsible private investments in both artisanal and commercial aquaculture.”
He highlighted that the move is coming following the formal transfer of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture to the Ministry. Oyetola mentioned that the sector is being repositioned as a key contributor to food security and rural livelihoods.
The minister highlighted that the approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council marks a critical turning point that provides a comprehensive framework to unlock value across the nation’s marine ecosystems.
He stated further that the National Policy on blue economy encompasses port infrastructure, maritime security, aquaculture, ocean governance, marine biotechnology, renewable energy, coastal tourism, and climate resilience.
The event was themed, “Strengthening collaboration for effective implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.”
GIK/APA