Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has urged Nigerian youths to harness the potential of the maritime sector to significantly contribute to the diversification initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Speaking at the University of Lagos’ Employment Clinic conference on Thursday, Oyetola emphasized the immense opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy that can drive youth empowerment and national development.
Addressing an audience at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, University of Lagos, Oyetola highlighted the importance of character and discipline among the youth. He encouraged them to shun vices and embrace hard work and selflessness, which are essential for becoming responsible and successful members of society.
The conference, titled “Blue Industry Career Insights,” was organized by the University of Lagos in collaboration with Employment Clinic under the Employment Transition Programme (EETP). The event brought together key stakeholders from the marine and blue economy sectors to discuss career opportunities for young Nigerians.
In his keynote address, Oyetola focused on the untapped potential of Nigeria’s blue economy and the critical role young people can play in its development. He urged the youth to explore these opportunities and contribute to the growth of the maritime sector.
“The certificates you will receive from this university are awarded based on character and learning. Character opens the door to knowledge and keeps it open until you complete your courses. I urge you to shun vices that could hinder your growth,” Oyetola said. “The world seeks individuals of character, who are in short supply. Be good ambassadors of this university and Nigeria.”
Oyetola outlined various career opportunities in the blue economy, including maritime shipping, shipbuilding, ports infrastructure, coastal tourism, fishing, offshore renewable energy, and marine biotechnology. He stressed the need for the youth to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to harness these opportunities and drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.
“The blue economy is about the myriad of opportunities within the sea. Our youth must be equipped to harness these opportunities and drive economic transformation,” Oyetola stated.
The Minister also detailed several government initiatives aimed at fostering job creation in the blue economy, such as specialized training and certification programs, international exchange programs with maritime institutes, partnerships with private sector companies for internships, and scholarships for students pursuing maritime studies.
Oyetola’s message was well received by the audience. Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, expressed gratitude for the minister’s participation, describing the event as a milestone in shaping the career paths of undergraduates. She emphasized the university’s commitment to industry partnerships for career development services and aligning with the government’s mission to diversify the economy.
“We are honored to have the minister speak to us. Our doors are open for industry partnerships to develop our students’ careers. The maritime sector is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP, and we aim to align with the government’s diversification mission,” Prof. Ogunsola said.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), also spoke at the event. He assured that NIMASA would continue to invest in capacity development projects targeted at youths. Mobereola highlighted the construction progress of the Institute of Maritime Studies at the University of Lagos, which is nearing 70 percent completion. This institute, established by NIMASA in universities across Nigeria, provides specialized training and research in maritime studies, addressing the industry’s needs.
“The Institute of Maritime Studies offers courses covering maritime operations, management, and technology. Key areas include maritime law, shipping management, port operations, marine engineering, and logistics,” Mobereola explained.