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From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, hosted the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting the growing maritime and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and France.
The visit focused on Nigeria’s campaign for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.
Accompanied by Ms Alice Ellenbogen, Political Counsellor at the French Embassy, Fonbaustier discussed Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming World Oceans Day and the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, from June 8 to 13. Oyetola will lead Nigeria’s delegation, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Oyetola sought France’s support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, emphasising Nigeria’s role as West and Central Africa’s leading maritime nation and a key player in the Gulf of Guinea. “Nigeria’s membership in the IMO Council would strengthen our contributions to international maritime regulation and sustainability,” he said, noting the global need for collaboration on ocean challenges.
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He highlighted the Federal Executive Council’s recent approval of Nigeria’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, which aims to sustainably develop marine resources, boost economic growth, create jobs, and protect the environment, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 14. Oyetola also underscored Nigeria’s success in eliminating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea through initiatives like the Deep Blue Project, enhancing maritime security for global trade.
Discussions covered Nigeria’s role in World Oceans Day and UNOC3, co-chaired by France and Costa Rica under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.” The conference aims to drive commitments for sustainable marine ecosystem management.
Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global cooperation on ocean health, maritime security, and blue economy innovation, thanking President Tinubu for his leadership. Ambassador Fonbaustier commended Tinubu’s decision to participate in UNOC3 and expressed France’s eagerness for Nigeria’s engagement, pledging to deepen bilateral cooperation in marine sustainability and security.
