Oyetola Leads Nigeria’s Delegation To UN Ocean Conference In France

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola is set to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), scheduled to take place from June 9 to 13, 2025, in Nice, France.

Oyetola will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the high-level global event, which will bring together world leaders, policy makers, scientists, and stakeholders to accelerate action toward ocean conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources.

Special adviser to the minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola said in a statement that the minister will also participate in the commemorative events of the 2025 World Oceans Day on June 8, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts aimed at addressing the urgent challenges facing the world’s oceans and coastal ecosystems.

UNOC3 is being convened under the overarching theme: “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.”

The theme reflects the growing international consensus on the need for decisive and inclusive measures to combat ocean degradation, protect marine biodiversity, and advance the sustainable blue economy, especially for coastal and island nations.

Reacting to the event, the minister said “The ocean is an indispensable part of our national life and economy, especially given our vast coastal resources and the strategic role of the maritime sector in trade, transportation, food security, and climate resilience. We are committed to aligning Nigeria’s development agenda with global best practices for sustainable ocean governance.”

He further stated that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has placed a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and economic diversification.

“Our presence at UNOC3 is a clear demonstration of this administration’s resolve to protect our marine ecosystems while unlocking the immense potential of the blue economy for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he added.