The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has commended Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his strong commitment to expanding fish production and promoting sustainable development within the nation’s blue economy.

The recognition came from Dr. Hussein Gadain, FAO Representative in Nigeria and to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), during a visit to Minister Oyetola’s office in Abuja.

National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy Praised

Dr. Gadain lauded the Ministry for developing the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, calling it a “critical roadmap for the sustainable harnessing of Nigeria’s marine resources.” He highlighted FAO’s contribution to the fisheries and aquaculture chapter of the policy.

“The policy is comprehensive and positions Nigeria as a pacesetter in the development of the marine and blue economy in Africa,” Dr. Gadain said. “We are pleased to be part of this process, particularly in strengthening the fisheries and aquaculture components that are vital for food security and livelihood creation.”

He further emphasized that FAO would continue providing technical support and deepening collaboration with the Ministry to increase fish production and strengthen the fish value chain across the country.

Minister Oyetola Reaffirms Commitment to Domestic Fish Production

Responding to the FAO’s commendation, Dr. Oyetola expressed gratitude for the agency’s long-standing partnership and reiterated the Ministry’s determination to expand domestic fish production.

“We value FAO’s consistent technical input and cooperation. Nigeria has the capacity to meet its own fish demand, and our goal is to close the production gaps that have forced reliance on importation for decades,” Dr. Oyetola stated. “By boosting local production, we can conserve foreign exchange, create jobs, and open opportunities for thousands of young people and investors in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He stressed that fisheries and aquaculture remain central to the Ministry’s strategic priorities, describing them as flagship drivers of the blue economy capable of enhancing nutrition, stimulating enterprise development, and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Nigeria’s Blue Economy: A Path to Sustainable Growth

Dr. Oyetola also highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector into a significant contributor to national development. He expressed confidence that, with the right policies and strong partnerships, Nigeria could become a regional leader in sustainable fisheries production.