President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled a visionary national security and economic strategy designed to harness Nigeria’s vast marine and aquatic resources as catalysts for diversification, employment creation, and long-term prosperity. Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima during a Presidential Parley with Senior Executive Course 47 participants of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Abuja, Tinubu directed all relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to swiftly assess and implement the NIPSS report’s recommendations on advancing the blue economy.
Strategic Growth Through the Blue Economy
The President emphasized the transformative potential of Nigeria’s blue economy, leveraging the nation’s 853-kilometer coastline, extensive inland waterways, rich fisheries, and strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea. The blueprint prioritizes:
- Expansion of aquaculture and fisheries, with production projected to surge from 1.2 million to 10 million metric tonnes within two years;
- Modernization of port and maritime infrastructure;
- Development of coastal tourism and marine biotechnology;
- Investment in renewable ocean energy.
These initiatives aim to generate sustainable revenue streams, foster intergenerational wealth, and anchor Nigeria’s economic diversification.
Comprehensive Security Reforms
Tinubu stressed that robust maritime security is critical to realizing the blue economy’s potential. NIPSS has been tasked with conducting a nationwide security assessment and providing actionable recommendations to address structural deficiencies and enhance institutional collaboration.
Empowering the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy
The recently established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy will play a central role in optimizing port operations, fortifying maritime defenses, expanding private-sector participation, and strengthening investor confidence. The ministry’s initiatives are aligned with the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy (2025–2034), which targets 7% annual sector growth and the creation of up to one million jobs by 2034, while promoting sustainable, environmentally responsible marine development.
NIPSS: The Intellectual Engine
In lauding NIPSS for its rigorous analysis and nationalistic commitment, Tinubu described the institute as an “intellectual powerhouse” driving Nigeria’s transformation. This blueprint signals a bold, strategic push to convert the nation’s “blue gold” into a foundation of shared prosperity and global competitiveness in maritime and marine industries.
