The director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh has lauded President Bola Tinubu for establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry and appointing Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to lead its operations.
Jamoh commended the creation of this “long overdue ministry,” highlighting its potential to significantly enhance the President’s plans and initiatives. He expressed optimism that the expansive maritime industry can effectively engage the country’s youth population and encouraged them to seize the opportunities within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
“I want to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry and appointing Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to lead its affairs. With the establishment of this ministry, Nigeria is poised to explore the vast potential of the blue economy,” Jamoh stated.
He elaborated on the concept of the blue economy, which entails the sustainable utilization of ocean resources to foster economic growth, improve livelihoods, and create jobs while safeguarding the health of the marine ecosystem. Activities encompassed within the blue economy framework include maritime shipping, fishing, aquaculture, coastal tourism, renewable energy, water desalination, undersea cabling, seabed extractive industries, deep-sea mining, marine genetic resources and biotechnology.
“This ministry is long overdue and plays a crucial role in supporting economic diversification. The efficient management and sustainable utilisation of marine resources in our oceans and seas are essential tools for fostering economic growth,” Jamoh emphasised.
