Oyetola, maritime leaders to speak on infrastructure challenges

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, alongside heads of key regulatory agency and stakeholders in the maritime industry, are set to explore strategies to address the human capital, assets and infrastructure needs to effectively harness the country’s blue economy potential at a forum.

These discussions will take place under the auspices of the Distinguished Maritime Personalities (DMPs) at the 2024 National Discourse, scheduled for October 17 in Lagos. The event’s theme is: ‘The Human Capital Component, Assets, and Infrastructure for the Blue Economy’.

The programme coordinator and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Maritime Nigeria, Kelvin Kagbare, highlighted the significance of this year’s discourse, emphasising its focus on ensuring that the blue economy brings substantial benefits to the country and its citizens.

Kagbare noted that the distinguished maritime personalities selected for the event are individuals who have made significant contributions to enhancing Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness and continue to do so.

Chairman of the organising committee, Eguono Odjegba, stated that the gathering of maritime professionals would critically examine the human capital requirements, necessary assets, and infrastructure essential for fully leveraging the blue economy’s potential.

“We are committed to making the Nigerian maritime industry more efficient, attractive, competitive, and cost-effective, and this year’s National Discourse is a key part of that effort,” Odjegba said.