Oyetola backs MARCON’s push for sustainable maritime development

Stanley Ihedigbo

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has praised the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) for its consistent efforts in promoting constructive dialogue and policy advocacy that have contributed to the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Speaking at MARCON’s 2026 Annual Conference held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, the Minister said the association has, over the years, established itself as a credible platform for engaging policymakers, industry operators, regulators and the media on issues affecting the maritime sector.

Oyetola, who was represented by the Port Manager of Rivers Port Complex, Mrs. Kenechi Okezie, acknowledged MARCON’s sustained advocacy and policy discussions, describing the organisation as an important partner in advancing reforms and promoting sustainable development within the maritime industry.

According to the Minister, the conference theme, “Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as Catalyst to Sustainable Blue Economy,” is both timely and relevant, especially as the Federal Government continues to pursue initiatives aimed at expanding the nation’s blue economy through improved infrastructure, trade facilitation and investment promotion.

He stressed that efficient and modern port infrastructure remains fundamental to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones, noting that seamless port operations are critical to enhancing trade competitiveness, attracting local and foreign investments, and strengthening industrial development.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising the country’s ports, describing the initiative as a strategic pillar for achieving a sustainable and globally competitive maritime economy.

He explained that efficient ports serve as gateways for commerce and are indispensable to the success of Special Economic Zones, which depend on reliable logistics, connectivity and operational efficiency to thrive.

Oyetola expressed optimism that deliberations at the conference would generate practical recommendations capable of supporting ongoing reforms in the maritime sector while fostering stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

He also noted that the conference would provide an opportunity for government agencies, industry players, investors and the media to develop innovative strategies that would unlock the enormous opportunities within Nigeria’s maritime domain and accelerate the implementation of the Federal Government’s Blue Economy agenda.

The Minister further urged stakeholders across the maritime value chain to sustain collaboration and dialogue to address industry challenges, improve operational efficiency and maximise the sector’s contribution to national economic growth.

Commending MARCON for maintaining a tradition of promoting informed discourse on maritime issues, Oyetola encouraged the association to continue providing a platform for constructive engagement that supports evidence-based policymaking and industry development.

He wished participants fruitful deliberations and a successful conference, expressing confidence that the outcomes would further strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry and reinforce its role as a major driver of economic diversification, trade expansion and sustainable national development.