Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable ocean governance and marine resource management as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, joined global leaders at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Monaco.
The high-level gathering, hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum, brought together world leaders and policymakers in a major show of support for the transition to a regenerative and sustainable blue economy. The forum precedes the United Nations Oceans Conference slated for Nice, France.
Among the dignitaries present were French President Emmanuel Macron, Prince William of Wales, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, alongside hundreds of delegates from various nations, multilateral organizations, and the private sector.
Themed around financing a regenerative blue economy and aligning ocean science with policy, the event focused on strategies to accelerate investment in marine conservation, strengthen climate resilience, and promote equitable ocean governance. Deliberations also explored ways to scale up funding for Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyetola used the occasion to emphasize Nigeria’s dedication to responsible ocean stewardship and its strategic focus on developing the blue economy as a driver of national growth, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability.
“Nigeria is fully aligned with global efforts to protect our oceans and ensure their sustainable use,” Oyetola said. “We are committed to implementing science-based, inclusive, and economically viable policies that safeguard marine biodiversity and improve livelihoods.”
Oyetola also held bilateral engagements with global technical experts and institutional leaders to discuss opportunities for cooperation in marine protection, capacity building, and sustainable development initiatives across West and Central Africa.
