The current Nigerian High Commissioner to Jamaica, Belize, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the International Seabed Authority (ISA), H.E Dr. Maureen P. Tamuno, has extolled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry and appointing Adegboyega Oyetola as the minister. She noted that the creation of the Ministry would go a long way in enhancing emerging areas of our Economy. In a strategic move that underscores a commitment to sustainable development goals and environmental stewardship, the recent establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by President Tinubu has drawn praise from citizens and experts alike. This visionary decision reflects a forward-thinking approach to economic growth and showcases a dedication to preserving the invaluable marine ecosystems that define our nation. The establishment of this ministry is a testament to the administration’s commitment to fostering a prosperous, resilient, and environmentally conscious country. Ambassador Tamuno stated that the implications of this step are far- reaching as the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry holds the potential to drive Nigeria’s economy and innovation, create jobs, and enhance our nation’s competitiveness on the global stage. Equally significant is the Ministry’s role in addressing pressing environmental challenges. Oceans, which cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, are under considerable threat from pollution, over- exploitation, and the impacts of climate change, as seen in our coastal areas and hinterland. President Tinubu is steadfastly committed to combatting these issues head-on by dedicating a specific ministry to the marine and blue Economy. Moreover, this decision resonates with global commitments such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and the Paris
Agreement, which emphasize the importance of sustainable ocean management. President Tinubu aligns our country’s trajectory with international efforts to safeguard our planet’s oceans for current and future generations by prioritizing the marine and blue Economy. It is worth noting that Ambassador Tamuno, in October 2022, employed her diplomatic capabilities and successfully organize a three-day summit in collaboration with the International Seabed Authority in Abuja. The event centered on the overarching theme of “Promotion of the sustainable development of Africa’s deep-seabed Resources in Support of Africa’s Blue Economy. The event was well attended by A-list personalities that included the Secretary-General, International Seabed Authority, Michael Lodge; Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; Chief of Naval Staff, as well as Experts and Senior representatives from Nigeria, Comoros, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Sao Tome and Principe and Uganda. The outcomes of the workshop have informed Nigeria to initiate preparations for securing a contract in the deep seabed to explore minerals on the seabed beyond national jurisdiction. Nigeria will be the inaugural African nation to secure the contract. Tamuno, who also Chairs the Informal Working Group on Inspection, Compliance, and Enforcement in the ISA, stated that its time for the government and corporate organizations to key into the enormous economic opportunities available as over thirty Contracts have already been awarded to other member states. As citizens, she said we must applaud President Tinubu’s dedication to advancing our country’s economic interests while safeguarding our natural heritage. The establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry stands as a testament to the President’s visionary leadership and commitment to fostering a sustainable, prosperous, and environmentally conscious nation. Amb Tamuno concluded that in the grand scheme, this new chapter in our country’s history is not just about creating a ministry—it’s about forging a path toward a more harmonious relationship between human activity and nature. As the initiatives of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry unfold, we can look forward to witnessing a transformation that leaves an indelible mark on our nation’s legacy.
Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has outlined the country’s job-creation strategy, emphasising that sustainable employment growth is being driven by far-reaching macroeconomic reforms under the Tinubu Administration.
Speaking at the Africa Jobs Engine Panel on the margins of the World Economic Forum, the Minister explained that Nigeria’s approach is focused on restoring macroeconomic stability and creating clear, investable pathways for the private sector.
He highlighted recent reforms, including the stabilisation of the foreign exchange regime, the removal of fuel subsidies, and ongoing power-sector restructuring that separates generation, transmission, and distribution. According to the Minister, these measures are designed to improve transparency, reduce distortions, and attract long-term private investment, particularly in energy-intensive and job-rich sectors.
According to a statement signed by Alkasim Abdulkadir SA Media to the minister , he also noted that comprehensive tax reforms are underway to improve efficiency, enhance predictability, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness as a destination for business and investment.
Referencing Nigeria’s hosting of the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES), he stated that the summit was conceived to bridge information gaps by equipping the private sector across the region with practical knowledge of regional frameworks and opportunities, including the West African Power Pool and other enabling regulatory instruments.
He stressed that while government’s responsibility is to provide stable and enabling conditions, the private sector remains the primary engine of job creation. In this context, the Minister pointed to the emergence of local production ecosystems that are increasingly converting raw materials into finished goods, supported by stronger linkages between labour, finance, and markets. These developments, he noted, are already expanding opportunities for women and young people.
The Honourable Minister further cautioned that the African Continental Free Trade Area should remain firmly focused on its core mandate of economic integration. He underscored that deepening intra-African trade, industrial linkages, and value chains is essential to sustaining long-term growth and employment across the continent.
He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to reforms that strengthen confidence, unlock private capital, and position the economy as a platform for inclusive growth and job creation in Africa.