Oyetola assures World Bank of designating terminals for fishing activities

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has assured the World Bank of Nigeria’s commitment to designating terminals for fishing activities for purposes of developing the sub-sector.

The Ministering made the plans known while receiving a team from the World Bank that was on a courtesy visit and expressed willingness to support the development of the maritime sector in line with the vision of the Ministry.

Leader of the World Bank team, Ms. Lia Sieghart , noted that the team was at the Ministry to discuss the government’s vision for the development of a sustainable and integrated blue economy and sustainable fisheries, and to also identify areas where the World Bank could provide expertise and knowledge.

She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the ministry, saying it was a strong signal that the Nigerian government was desirous of developing the sector.

Responding, the Minister told the team that:  “Fishery is the flagship of the Ministry. We are doing everything to regulate the activities in that sector. We are designating terminals for fishing activities.

“We want to do a sustainable fishery programme on a sustainable basis and make it attractive to the youths. We intend to reduce importation and encourage production here, in Nigeria. Therefore, we are willing and ready to have you support our efforts, so as to realise our vision for the ministry.”

The minister was joined in the meeting by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oloruntola Olufemi; Director, Maritime Safety and Security, Babatunde Bombata; and Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, Technical Aide to the minister, among others.