NIGERIA: FG Reaffirms Commitment To Coastal Infrastructure, Says South-South Key To Blue Economy Growth

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to developing critical coastal and maritime infrastructure across Nigeria’s South-South region as part of efforts to unlock the full potential of the country’s blue economy.

Oyetola stated this while receiving a delegation from the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) led by its Managing Director, Usoro Akpabio, in Abuja.

Describing the South-South as central to Nigeria’s maritime future, the Minister highlighted the region’s long coastline, strategic seaports, and abundant aquatic resources as key assets that position it as a vital player in the nation’s economic transformation.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, Oyetola assured that the Federal Government remains focused on strengthening port and coastal infrastructure to ensure the region contributes effectively to national growth and global maritime competitiveness.

He noted that, in addition to working with state governments to develop new deep seaports, existing ones in the region would soon undergo modernisation and upgrade under the Federal Government’s ongoing Port Modernisation Programme.

According to the Minister, the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic agenda to harness the nation’s marine resources sustainably, create jobs, and attract foreign investment through efficient port operations and logistics systems.

Responding, SSDC Managing Director, Usoro Akpabio, commended Oyetola’s leadership and vision in repositioning the maritime and blue economy sector.

He also expressed the Commission’s readiness to partner with the Ministry in executing projects that would enhance economic development, regional integration, and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The meeting, officials said, marks another step in strengthening collaboration between the Federal Government and regional institutions toward building a sustainable and inclusive blue economy for Nigeria.