By Joy Onu
The Federal Government has intensified efforts to promote a sustainable and climate-responsible approach to the development of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, as it seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
This position was reinforced in Abuja on Monday during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, and a delegation from Invest International, a financing institution under the Dutch Ministry of Finance.
During the engagement, Mahmood explained that Nigeria is embedding environmental safeguards into its marine development strategy, with emphasis on reducing emissions, protecting ocean biodiversity, and ensuring responsible exploitation of marine resources. She noted that emerging global interests in ocean-based industries require strict adherence to sustainability standards.
She also identified fisheries as a key growth area within the blue economy, stressing its importance to food security, job creation, and economic empowerment, particularly for coastal communities. According to her, Nigeria’s vast aquatic resources present significant opportunities for both local and foreign investment.
Mahmood further expressed the Ministry’s readiness to expand collaboration in critical areas such as port infrastructure and maritime services, describing strategic partnerships as essential to unlocking long-term value in the sector.
On the part of the visiting delegation, Fenna Zoe Howkamp outlined proposed areas of cooperation, including coastal protection projects, climate-resilient infrastructure, and nature-based solutions for drainage and water systems.
She disclosed that Invest International is prepared to provide substantial financing support for public infrastructure projects, which could be structured alongside global partners such as the World Bank and the European Investment Bank.
Both sides expressed optimism about strengthening cooperation through detailed feasibility studies and technical engagements aimed at advancing sustainable marine development and improving resilience in Nigeria’s coastal areas.
