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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has praised the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) for its unwavering commitment to promoting informed policy dialogue and advancing reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Oyetola said the association has over the years established itself as a credible platform for constructive engagement among government, industry operators and the media, helping to shape conversations that support the growth of the nation’s maritime industry.
The minister made the remarks at MARCON’s 2026 Annual Conference held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, last Thursday. He was represented at the event by the Rivers Port Manager, Kenechi Okaeze.
He noted that MARCON’s sustained advocacy and robust policy discussions have made meaningful contributions to the development of the maritime sector, describing the group’s role as vital at a time when the Federal Government is pursuing an ambitious blue economy agenda.
According to him, the conference theme, “Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as Catalyst to Sustainable Blue Economy,” aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy of leveraging maritime assets to stimulate industrialisation, expand trade and attract investment.
Oyetola stressed that modern, efficient and globally competitive port infrastructure is fundamental to the success of Special Economic Zones, saying improved port facilities would lower logistics costs, facilitate seamless cargo movement and enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness as a regional trade and investment hub.
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He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising the nation’s ports, describing the initiative as a critical pillar for unlocking the vast opportunities within the blue economy and accelerating sustainable economic development.
The minister expressed confidence that deliberations at the conference would produce practical recommendations and deepen collaboration among key stakeholders, providing fresh momentum for ongoing efforts to transform Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He said the outcomes of the conference would not only support the modernisation of port infrastructure but also help unlock the immense economic potential of the maritime sector in line with the government’s development priorities.
Oyetola urged participants to sustain collaboration and dialogue, noting that collective action by government, industry players and the media remains essential to building a resilient maritime sector capable of driving national prosperity.
He wished delegates fruitful deliberations and expressed optimism that the conference would generate innovative ideas and lasting partnerships to advance Nigeria’s blue economy aspirations.
