By Victoria Onehi
The World Bank has expressed its desire to partner with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, so as to develop the maritime sector in line with the vision of the ministry.
Leading a team of the group on a courtesy visit to the minister, Adegboyega Oyetola, the leader of the World Bank team, Ms. Lia Sieghart , noted that the team was at the ministry to discuss the government’s vision for the development of a sustainable and integrated blue economy and sustainable fisheries, and to also identify areas where the World Bank could provide expertise and knowledge.
She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the ministry, saying it was a strong signal that the Nigerian government was desirous of developing the sector.
Responding, the minister appreciated the team for the visit and informed them of the steps taken to map the country’s marine and Blue Economy resources, just as he informed the team that developing the fishery and aquaculture remains topmost priority of the ministry.
The Minister in a statement disclosed that fishery is the flagship of the ministry. He said, “We are doing everything to regulate the activities in that sector. We are designating terminals for fishing activities. We want to do a sustainable fishery programme on a sustainable basis and make it attractive to the youths. We intend to reduce importation and encourage production here, in Nigeria. Therefore, we are willing and ready to have you support our efforts, so as to realise our vision for the ministry, ” Oyetola noted.
The Minister was joined in the meeting by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oloruntola Olufemi; Director, Maritime Safety and Security, Babatunde Bombata; and Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, Technical aide to the minister, among others.
