Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, joined a distinguished assembly of global leaders on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum held in Monaco. The high-level gathering, hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco, served as a strategic precursor to the forthcoming United Nations Oceans Conference in Nice, France.
The event, held at the renowned Grimaldi Forum, brought together an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Prince William, Prince of Wales. The forum attracted hundreds of international delegates, signaling the increasing urgency and relevance of ocean governance and blue economy discourse on the global agenda.
With a thematic focus on advancing a regenerative blue economy and sustainable ocean finance, the forum spotlighted global efforts to safeguard marine ecosystems, address climate challenges, and promote the responsible utilisation of ocean resources. Discussions centered on enhancing financing for Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), promoting ocean-based economic resilience and ensuring that marine science directly informs policy and decision-making.
Nigeria’s participation through Oyetola highlighted the country’s growing commitment to marine conservation, climate adaptation and economic diversification via the blue economy. Representing President Bola Tinubu, Oyetola emphasised Nigeria’s resolve to lead and collaborate in shaping global ocean policies and sustainable practices, especially across Africa’s coastal and maritime domains.
“Nigeria remains firmly committed to the sustainable management and protection of our ocean resources. We will continue to pursue science-driven, inclusive, and economically viable solutions that support livelihoods and safeguard marine biodiversity,” Oyetola stated.
On the sidelines of the event, the minister held strategic engagements with technical experts, heads of institutions, and fellow ministers to explore opportunities for strengthened partnerships in marine conservation, capacity building, and blue economy innovation, particularly across West and Central Africa.
Oyetola’s participation not only reaffirmed Nigeria’s place in global ocean governance conversations but also positioned the country to contribute meaningfully at the upcoming UN Oceans Conference in Nice, where major decisions on marine protected areas and sustainable ocean commitments will be on the table.
