The World Bank Group has expressed its interest in partnering with Nigeria’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to enhance the country’s maritime sector.
This was disclosed in a statement by an aide to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Ismail Omipdan on Wednesday stating the move was in line with the vision of the ministry, according to The Punch.
During a recent courtesy visit led by Ms. Lia Sieghart to the MIinister, Adegboyega Oyetola, the team discussed the government’s vision for a sustainable and integrated blue economy, focusing on sustainable fisheries.
“It is to also identify areas where the World Bank can provide expertise and knowledge,” she said.
She commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, highlighting it as a strong indication of the Nigerian government’s commitment to developing the maritime sector.
In response, Oyetola expressed his gratitude for the team’s visit and outlined the steps being taken to harness Nigeria’s marine and blue economy resources.
He emphasized that the development of fisheries and aquaculture is the ministry’s top priority.
He also highlighted that the development of fisheries and aquaculture continues to be the ministry’s highest priority.
“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 program on a sustainable basis and make it attractive to the youth.
“We intend to reduce importation and encourage production here, in Nigeria. Therefore, we are willing and ready to have you support our efforts, to realise our vision for the ministry,” Oyetola added.
