Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has noted that the investments in research, innovation and technology could unlock new solutions for ocean conservation resource efficiency, and climate resilience.

According to a report by Olujimi Oyetomi the Director of Press & Public Relations of the ministry, on Tuesday, Oyetola, who spoke for his Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oloruntola, revealed this during his opening address at Abuja at a stakeholders’ consultative workshop on national blue economy strategy organised by the African Union for Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources with funding from the Kingdom of Norway.

The minister called for a continuous investment in research, innovation and technology to tackle climate change in the country.

He also warned that marine resource overexploitation, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change jeopardizes the ocean ecosystem health and resilience.

The Osun State former governor noted that addressing the challenges required concerted efforts to promote responsible resource management, mitigate environmental impacts, and build resilience to climate change.

“This will help to build the potential to drive inclusive growth, create employment opportunities, and alleviate poverty, particularly in coastal and island communities.

“When we choose to harness the vast potential of our oceans sustainably, we can unlock new sources of economic value, such as fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, renewable energy, and biotechnology,” Oyetola said.

Also speaking, Babatunde Sule, the Director of Maritime Services at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, emphasised the collective need to address climate change.

He highlights the importance of prioritising prevention to mitigate marine environment disasters and save lives.