African Union: Nigeria has rich marine resources to lead Africa’s Blue Economy

The African Union (AU) has recognized Nigeria’s potential to lead Africa’s Blue Economy, given its strategic location and abundant, untapped marine resources.

According to the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the Head of Division, Blue Economy, Africa Union, Mr. Georges Asseko during the closing ceremony of the national stakeholders’ consultation and validation workshop in Abuja, emphasized Nigeria’s potential to spearhead Africa’s Blue Economy.

Asseko noted that Nigeria’s extensive coastline, rich marine resources, and strategic location position it as a prime leader in this sector.

“Nigeria’s emergence as a leading player in the aquaculture industry is exemplified by the rapid growth and development of its aquaculture value chains.”

“Notably, the country has ascended to become the second-largest producer of aquaculture products annually, underscoring its significant strides in this sector,” he stated.”

As reported by Leadership, the AU commission acknowledges Nigeria’s pioneering role in the blue economy sector by establishing a standalone Ministry dedicated to Blue Economy.

“The strategic move aligns with the Africa Blue Economy Strategy (ABES), which serves as a comprehensive blueprint and catalyst for growth and sustainable development,” the commission explained.

“The AU Agenda 2063 envisions a thriving Africa, characterized by integration, prosperity, and peace, driven by its vast resources and prominent global presence.”

“To achieve this vision, the blue economy plays a vital role in fostering inclusive economic growth, ensuring food security, creating jobs and wealth, protecting ecosystems, and promoting regional integration.”

Asseko further called on all marine stakeholders in Nigeria to cooperate and work together to achieve the potential of a blue economy in Nigeria.

He said, “as Nigeria transitions from validating to implementing its blue economy strategy, collaborative effort is crucial.”

“All stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, civil society organizations, academic experts, and local communities, must actively contribute to ensure the strategy’s success.”

“The collective involvement will foster a cohesive approach, leveraging diverse expertise and resources to drive sustainable growth and development.”

“The validation workshop marks a significant step towards unlocking Nigeria’s vast blue economy potential.”

“The collaborative effort will pave the way for economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and social equity, securing a brighter future for generations to come.”.

Besides, the HOD stated that “Nigeria’s effective implementation of this strategy will have a profound impact, not only elevating the standard of living for its citizens but also positioning the country as a beacon of best practices for African nations, thereby contributing to the continent’s overall progress and prosperity.”

Also, speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola emphasized that Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy marks a significant milestone in boosting economic growth while safeguarding marine and coastal ecosystems.

“The strategic move is crucial for Nigeria’s economic diversification, leveraging its vast ocean resources to drive sustainable development.”

According to him, “through in-depth discussions, innovative strategies were explored, key challenges identified, and best practices shared to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s marine and coastal resources.”

“The development of the National Blue Economy Strategy provides a structured framework for Nigeria’s ocean resource management.”

“The key components include ocean-based economic development, environmental stewardship, and social equity, ensuring sustainable growth and ecosystem preservation.”

“Unlocking the full potential of the blue economy demands a multifaceted approach that integrates strategic planning, sustainability, research-driven solutions, collaboration, and public-private partnerships.”

“Key to this endeavor are partnerships with renowned organizations such as the African Union-Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), which champions the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and the optimization of blue economy themes,” Oyetola stated.

Know about African Union (AU)

The African Union (AU) is a continental organization consisting of all 55 countries in Africa. It was established in 2002 to promote economic, political, and social integration among its member states.

History of African Union

The AU succeeded the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which was formed in 1963. The AU was launched in 2002 in Durban, South Africa, with the signing of the Constitutive Act.

Objectives of African Union

The AU’s primary objectives include promoting unity and solidarity among African states, accelerating political, economic, and social integration, promoting peace, security, and stability, encouraging democratic principles and human rights, and supporting sustainable development and economic growth.

Organizational Structure of African Union

The AU has several key organs like the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Executive Council, African Union Commission (AUC), Pan-African Parliament, Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) and the African Court of Justice and Human Rights.

Programs and Initiatives

Some notable AU programs and initiatives include Agenda 2063, A 50-year development plan for Africa, African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Single African Passport, African Union Peace and Security Council, African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD)

Member States

All 55 African countries are members of the AU. Its headquarter is in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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