Nigeria's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, joined world leaders and global dignitaries on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the prestigious Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The special event, held ahead of the United Nations (UN) Oceans Conference in Nice, France, was hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Grimaldi Forum, according to a statement released on Monday by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister.
Global Leaders Gather for Ocean Sustainability
The forum attracted significant international attention with the presence of key figures including Prince William, Prince of Wales; French President Emmanuel Macron; and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, alongside hundreds of global delegates.
Themed around a regenerative blue economy and sustainable ocean finance, the gathering emphasized the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable use of ocean resources.
Leaders discussed accelerating the transition to a resilient ocean economy, scaling up funding for SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and aligning marine science with policymaking to safeguard the planet's largest ecosystem.
Nigeria's Growing Commitment to Ocean Governance
Nigeria's participation underscored the country's growing commitment to ocean governance, maritime sustainability, and climate adaptation through its Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
"Nigeria remains committed to ensuring the protection and sustainable management of ocean resources and will continue to play a pivotal role in driving inclusive, science-based, and economically viable ocean solutions," Oyetola stated while representing President Tinubu.
On the sidelines of the event, the Minister engaged with other leaders, technical experts, and institutional heads to explore avenues for increased cooperation in blue economy development, marine conservation, and capacity building across the West and Central African subregion.
His participation further positioned Nigeria as a key stakeholder in shaping ocean governance policies ahead of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, where agreements and commitments to expand marine protected areas are expected to be discussed.
As the marine sector continues to play a critical role in Nigeria's economic diversification and environmental protection efforts, Oyetola's presence at the forum reinforced the country's commitment to engage actively on global platforms and collaborate with international partners.
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