Nigerian youths have been urged to take advantage of the potential in the maritime sector so as to contribute immensely to the diversification initiatives of the renewed hope agenda of the Federal Government.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, urged the youths to shun vices that could hinder their growth but embrace hard work, discipline, decency, and selflessness that would make them responsible members of the society.

This is even as the Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dayo Mobereola, assured that the agency would continue to invest in capacity development and projects targeted at the youths.
Oyetola and Mobereola spoke at the University of Lagos’ Employment Clinic conference, held in Lagos.

The minister, in his keynote address on the immense potential of Nigeria’s blue economy and its role in youth empowerment, focused on the untapped potential of Nigeria’s blue economy and the vital role young people can play in its development.

He, therefore, urged them to explore these opportunities, pursue their passions, and contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

“As you are all aware, the certificates that you will receive from this university at the end of your programme are awarded to you on the basis of character and learning. In the order of importance, character comes before learning.

“It is character that opens the door to knowledge and keeps it open until you are done with your courses and a degree is awarded to you. I, therefore, urge you as youths to shun vices that could hinder your growth.

“The world is replete with persons of talents but it is looking for persons of character, who are in short supply. You are, therefore, enjoined to be good ambassadors of the university and Nigeria by displaying the highest level of character anywhere you find yourself,” Oyetola said.

The minister highlighted some of the career opportunities in the sector to include maritime shipping, shipbuilding, ports infrastructure, coastal tourism, fishing, offshore renewable energy.

marine and biotechnology, among others.Oyetola also outlined several government initiatives aimed at fostering job creation in the blue economy.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, thanked the minister for honouring the university’s invite, saying its doors are wide open to partnership.

Also speaking at the event, the NIMASA boss stated that the agency is working at concluding the construction of the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Lagos building which is almost at 70 percent completion stage.

“Institute of Maritime Studies was established by NIMASA in universities across the six geo political zones of the country. They provide specialised training and research in maritime studies, addressing the needs of the maritime industry in Nigeria and beyond,” Mobereola added.