The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has said that investing in research, innovation and technology would unlock innovations for ocean conservation resource efficiency, and climate resilience,
This disclosure was revealed by the Director of Press & Public Relations of the ministry, Olujimi Oyetomi, on Tuesday, according to The Punch.
Oyetola, represented by his Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oloruntola, disclosed this in his opening address at Abuja at a stakeholders’ consultative workshop on national blue economy strategy organised by the African Union for Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources with funding from the Kingdom of Norway.
The minister pointed out that investment in research leads to a more prosperous and sustainable future.
He stressed that a continuous investment in research, innovation, and technology would address climate change in the country.
The Minister highlighted that the health and resilience of marine ecosystems are threatened by overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution as well as climate change.
Oyetola pointed out that concerted efforts were needed to promote sustainable management of resources, reduce environmental impacts, and strengthen resilience against climate change to address these challenges.
“This will help to build the potential to drive inclusive growth, create employment opportunities, and alleviate poverty, particularly in coastal and island communities.
“When we choose to harness the vast potential of our oceans sustainably, we can unlock new sources of economic value, such as fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, renewable energy, and biotechnology,” Oyetola said.
Meanwhile, the Director of Maritime Services at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Babatunde Sule, also stressed the need for collective action on climate change.
In his view, he underlined the importance of prioritising prevention to mitigate Marine Environment Disasters and Save lives.
