Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing partnerships in the blue economy sector, following a courtesy visit by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yu Dunhai, to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in Abuja.
Welcoming the envoy, Oyetola praised the long-standing bilateral ties between Nigeria and China, describing them as mutually beneficial and vital to the economic growth of both nations. He said Nigeria’s vast maritime endowments make the country strategically positioned to become a hub for marine trade, logistics, and investment in Africa.
The minister noted that Nigeria boasts 853 kilometres of Atlantic coastline, over 10,000 kilometres of inland waterways, and rich marine biodiversity that supports aquaculture and fisheries. He explained that these resources hold immense potential for shipping, port operations, marine tourism, renewable ocean energy, and coastal infrastructure development.
According to him, the marine and blue economy sector represents a major frontier for wealth creation, job opportunities, and sustainable growth if fully harnessed. He expressed optimism that closer cooperation with China would open new opportunities for investments and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry.