Nigeria Targets 5 Million Blue Economy Jobs by 2035, Tinubu Tells Ocean Conference

President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria plans to create five million new ocean-based jobs by 2035. He made the pledge on Wednesday at the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, said Nigeria has launched a National Blue Economy Action Plan. The plan targets fisheries, shipping, maritime tourism, and renewable energy as key drivers of inclusive growth.

"For Nigeria, the ocean isn't only a source of prosperity but also a pillar of sovereignty, security and climate resilience," Tinubu said. "We recognise that the health of our oceans directly determines the stability and prosperity of our continent."

The President said the initiative prioritises youth and women. It aims to expand sustainable opportunities across Nigeria's coastal and maritime sectors.

Tinubu noted that the creation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 — a first for Nigeria — shows the government's commitment to using maritime resources for economic growth. Before that, marine matters were handled under the Ministry of Transportation.

He also called for stronger African cooperation to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. That practice, he said, threatens food security and economic stability across the continent.

On maritime security, Tinubu said Nigeria has strengthened its naval capabilities and adopted modern technology. This has significantly reduced piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, which had been a major problem for shipping in the region.

"Through the adoption of modern technology and enhanced naval capability, Nigeria has significantly reduced incidents of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea," he said. "This has helped in removing a major impediment to freedom of navigation and commercial shipping in the subregion."

The President urged stronger partnerships among African countries, development banks, the private sector, and civil society. He said they must mobilise sustainable financing and ensure young people and women fully participate in ocean governance.

Nigeria's Blue Economy Action Plan is part of a global push for sustainable ocean management. The Our Ocean Conference, first held in 2014, brings together governments, businesses, and NGOs to make commitments on marine conservation and sustainable use.