The African Union (AU) has acknowledged Nigeria’s strategic advantages and untapped marine resources, positioning it as a potential leader in Africa’s burgeoning blue economy.
The recognition came during the closing ceremony of a broad-based national stakeholders’ consultation and validation workshop on Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy held in Abuja.
Georges Asseko, the AU’s Head of Division for the Blue Economy, emphasized Nigeria’s competitive edge due to its vast coastline, rich marine resources, and rapid aquaculture growth.
Asseko highlighted that Nigeria ranks as Africa’s second-largest aquaculture producer, underscoring the nation’s capability in marine-based industries.
“Nigeria, with its vast coastline, rich marine resources, and strategic location, is well-positioned to be a leader in Africa’s blue economy,” he stated.
The AU Commission, which is working to promote sustainable marine resources and economic resilience, praised Nigeria’s commitment to establishing a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy, aligned with the AU’s Africa Blue Economy Strategy (ABES).
Asseko noted that ABES serves as a blueprint for Africa’s sustainable marine development, in line with Agenda 2063’s vision of an “integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa.”
According to the AU, a well-developed blue economy could drive inclusive economic growth, food security, job creation, environmental preservation, and regional integration.
Asseko urged Nigerian stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, civil society, academia, and local communities, to collaborate in realizing this vision.
“As this strategy moves from validation to implementation, there is a need for all stakeholders…to actively contribute to the success of this strategy,” he said, stressing the importance of inclusivity and coordinated efforts in achieving sustainable growth.
Nigeria’s Minister of Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, echoed the AU’s optimism, emphasizing that the newly developed National Blue Economy Strategy marks a significant step towards national economic growth and environmental conservation.
Oyetola highlighted the outcomes of the workshop, which explored innovative strategies and identified challenges to fully harness Nigeria’s marine and coastal resources.
“Our vision for a sustainable blue economy must be anchored in collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to sustainability,” Oyetola remarked, emphasizing that the strategy aims to provide a roadmap for responsibly leveraging the blue economy.
He also stressed the need for research, strategic public-private partnerships, and engagement with AU and other bodies to unlock the potential across all blue economy sectors.
The AU and Nigerian government officials noted that a successful implementation of Nigeria’s Blue Economy Strategy would not only benefit Nigerian citizens but could also serve as a blueprint for other African nations.
The move aligns with the AU’s long-term goal to position Africa as a key player in the global blue economy while fostering regional growth and environmental stewardship.
