Marine Ministry: capable of fast-tracking Nigerian economy, another bold step by Tinubu – Jamoh, NIMASA DG

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking the bold step of creating Marine and Blue Economy ministry saying it’s capable of putting the Nation’s economy back on track.

Tinubu and Jamoh

Jamoh who gave the president thumbs up for appointing Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as it’s pioneer minister however said creation of the ministry was “long overdue” as it will give a huge boost to plans and programmes he intends to deploy to take Nigeria out of her current economic doldrums.

The NIMASA boss urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of the opportunities abound in the Nigerian maritime industry as it is large enough to adequately engage the teeming unemployed youths in the country.

He said, “I want to commend our President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, and appointing Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to man its affairs. There are new opportunities around us, and I’m glad Nigeria with the creation of this ministry will explore the concept of blue economy.

“The blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem. Blue Economy Activities include Maritime shipping, Fishing & aquaculture, Coastal tourism, Renewable energy, Water desalination, Undersea cabling, Seabed extractive industries & deep sea mining, Marine genetic resources and Biotechnology.

“Honestly, this ministry is long overdue in the face of our dwindling economic fortunes, and more importantly, to support the diversification of the economy. Efficient management and sustainable exploitation of the marine resources in our seas and oceans, no doubt, provide a veritable tool for Economic Growth.”