The World Bank has expressed willingness to partner with the Nigerian Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to develop the maritime sector in line with the vision of the ministry, especially for sustainable fishing.
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.
Sieghart also noted that visit provided an opportunity identify areas where the World Bank could provide expertise and knowledge to grow the Nigerian Marine and Blue Economy.
She, however, 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.
In his response, 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, stressing that developing the fishery and aquaculture remains topmost priority of the ministry.
“Fishery is the flagship of ministry. 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 said.
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.
