By Aisha Cole

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has received the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Marc Fonbaustier.

The visit underscored the strengthening maritime and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and France, particularly in the context of ocean governance and global maritime collaboration.

The engagement comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to secure election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council later this year.

Amb. Fonbaustier, accompanied by Ms Alice Ellenbogen, Political Counsellor at the French Embassy, visited to discuss Nigeria’s role in upcoming World Oceans Day celebrations.

Oyetola said the discussions also covered the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), to be held in Nice, France, from June 8 to 13.

The Minister will lead Nigeria’s delegation to UNOC3 on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, further reinforcing Nigeria’s international maritime presence.

During the meeting, Oyetola appealed for France’s support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, reaffirming the country’s leadership in West and Central Africa’s maritime sector.

He emphasised Nigeria’s pivotal role in maritime safety, regional security, and governance, particularly as a gateway to the Gulf of Guinea.

Oyetola noted that Nigeria’s council membership would strengthen international maritime regulation and promote sustainability amid today’s pressing oceanic challenges.

He informed the French envoy of the recent Federal Executive Council approval of Nigeria’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

“The policy offers a comprehensive framework for sustainably managing marine resources, promoting growth, creating jobs, and protecting the environment,” the minister stated.

He added that the policy aligns with the global ocean agenda and advances Sustainable Development Goal-14 on ocean conservation and sustainable use.

Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s success in combating maritime insecurity, especially in reducing piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea.

Through the Deep Blue Project and stronger inter-agency coordination, piracy incidents have dropped, making the region safer for shipping and trade.

The minister said discussions also focused on Nigeria’s active role in World Oceans Day and preparations for UNOC3, building on past editions.

He explained that the conference, co-chaired by France and Costa Rica, will adopt the theme: ‘Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.’

The event is expected to produce concrete commitments, foster science-based solutions, and drive financing for sustainable marine ecosystem management.

Oyetola reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to the conference and reaffirmed its commitment to maritime security and blue economy innovation.

He thanked President Tinubu for his leadership and for the opportunity to represent Nigeria on such a critical global stage.

In response, Fonbaustier praised President Tinubu’s decision to participate in UNOC3 through Minister Oyetola’s leadership.

The ambassador expressed France’s anticipation of Nigeria’s robust engagement and a deepened partnership in marine sustainability and maritime development.

He said the meeting marks a key moment in Nigeria’s maritime diplomacy and highlights the need for international cooperation for oceanic progress. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo