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As the world marks World Oceans Day 2026, an International Advocate of Peace at the United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC), Prince Olayiwola Shittu, JP, has urged Nigerian maritime stakeholders to deepen their commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable maritime development.
Prince Shittu, who is also a former President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), reminded stakeholders across the maritime industry that June 8 is the day designated by the United Nations as World Oceans Day, providing a global platform to promote awareness and action towards the protection and sustainable use of ocean resources.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know, A New Relationship with Our Ocean,” comes at a critical time when oceans are facing mounting pressure from pollution, climate change, habitat degradation and unsustainable human activities.
According to him, the ocean remains indispensable to global trade, food security, environmental stability and economic growth, making its protection a responsibility that must be shared by governments, businesses, coastal communities and individuals.
“The ocean is one of humanity’s greatest assets. It sustains livelihoods, supports international commerce and plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Protecting it is not only an environmental obligation but also an economic necessity,” he said.
Prince Shittu stressed that as a major maritime nation, Nigeria must strengthen efforts aimed at safeguarding its marine and coastal resources while harnessing opportunities within the blue economy for sustainable national development.
He called on government agencies, shipping companies, port operators, freight forwarders and other industry players to champion cleaner waterways, responsible maritime practices and stronger environmental protection measures capable of preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.
The UN-POLAC Peace Advocate also called for increased investment in marine research, environmental education and conservation initiatives, noting that sustainable ocean management can create jobs, stimulate economic growth and enhance the resilience of coastal communities.
He further encouraged young people to become active participants in ocean sustainability efforts, emphasizing that the future of the maritime sector and the health of the marine environment depend on the actions taken today.
“As we commemorate World Oceans Day, let us renew our commitment to preserving the oceans that sustain life and commerce across the globe. Collective action today will help secure a healthier, more prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come,” Prince Shittu stated.
The maritime leader reaffirmed that protecting the oceans is a shared responsibility and called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that marine resources continue to support economic prosperity and environmental sustainability worldwide.
