Member, Group of Experts of the United Nations Regular Process for Global Reporting and Assessment of the State of the Marine Environment and Socio-economics, Dr Felicia Mogo, has called on the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to amplify Nigeria’s participation in international ocean governance and maritime diplomacy.

Mogo stated this after her re-election by African States to the global body responsible for assessing the state of the world’s oceans and their socio-economic importance.

During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, in Abuja to brief him on her re-election, Mogo said Nigeria’s participation in the global ocean assessment framework presents an opportunity to strengthen its influence in international ocean governance and maritime diplomacy.

Mogo also noted that the country’s representation in the United Nations process offers it a platform to advance national interests related to marine resources, environmental sustainability, development and the socio-economic benefits of the marine resources across the continent.

Mogo said the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs could play a stronger role in amplifying Nigeria’s engagement in the global process, particularly by supporting coordination between national institutions and international ocean governance platforms.

She reaffirmed her commitment to using the position within the UN expert group to promote the interests of Nigeria and other African countries in global ocean policy discussions.

Mogo expressed appreciation to the Minister, his office, and the Nigerian Government for the support that facilitated her successful re-election.

In his remarks, the minister congratulated Mogo and described her re-election as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global ocean governance.

The Minister also emphasised the sustainable growth opportunities available to Nigeria within its maritime domain and in areas beyond national jurisdiction, particularly in food security, renewable energy, ocean resources and maritime security.

He encouraged Mogo to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, and the International Seabed Authority in Jamaica, to advance Nigeria’s strategic interests.

Tuggar also directed the relevant department to take the necessary steps to ensure appropriate follow-up actions.