Nigeria Urged to Adopt National Blue Economy Policy

Wasiu Eshinlokun, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, called for Nigerian states to adopt the national blue economy policy during a stakeholder engagement in Lagos last week. He stated that embracing this policy is a significant milestone in Nigeria's quest to unlock vast economic opportunities within its maritime domain.

Eshinlokun emphasized the necessity for state governments to mobilize and support legislative aspects that extend beyond mere law-making to create a robust legal framework for effective implementation. He noted that the Senate Committee recognizes the critical role of sub-national governments in the practical realization of blue economy activities, which include fisheries, inland waterways transport, coastal tourism, and marine conservation.

Eshinlokun also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and legislative oversight to ensure that policies translate into economic growth and social inclusion. He urged state assemblies to complement national efforts by enacting relevant laws tailored to their unique maritime and inland waterway potentials.