Tinubu Urges Swift Action on Ocean Protection, More Funding for Developing Nations

President Bola Tinubu has called for the urgent ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and a significant increase in funding to support blue economy initiatives, especially in developing countries, to ensure the sustainable use and protection of the world’s oceans.

Speaking on behalf of the president at the ongoing United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized the need for immediate and united global efforts to safeguard ocean health for future generations.

The high-level conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, has drawn participation from over 120 member states under the theme: “Accelerating Action and Mobilising All Actors to Conserve and Sustainably Use the Ocean.”

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Bolaji Akinola, and made available to Channels Television on Wednesday, Oyetola noted that as a coastal nation, Nigeria recognises the ocean as a vital source of natural wealth, food security, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.

He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to achieving the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 14, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Nigeria has already signed the BBNJ Agreement and initiated its ratification process. According to Oyetola, implementing the agreement—especially the goal of protecting at least 30% of the global ocean as Marine Protected Areas by 2030—is essential for fulfilling SDG 14 targets.

Collective Action and Regional Leadership

Oyetola stressed that achieving these goals requires a strong, coordinated global commitment supported by effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

“Nigeria is demonstrating regional leadership,” he said, highlighting the country’s role in coordinating a regional roadmap among West African nations to propose a highly protected High Seas Marine Protected Area in the Convergence Zone of the Canary and Guinea Currents.

He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the adoption of the draft Nice Ocean Action Declaration and Plan, urging the global community—including investors and development partners—to provide technical expertise and financial support for blue economy projects in the developing world.

Blue Finance and Ocean Governance

Oyetola emphasized the importance of increased blue finance and the transfer of marine scientific knowledge, which he said are essential for informed policymaking and the growth of sustainable ocean-based industries.

He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to addressing transboundary ocean issues such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine pollution, and the need for better ocean monitoring, data collection, and regional collaboration.

Calling on all nations to take bold and urgent steps, Oyetola said: “The prompt ratification of the BBNJ Agreement and increased funding for blue economy initiatives must be underpinned by political will, scientific rigor, and global cooperation.”

He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to advancing shared ocean priorities in partnership with the international community and urged all countries to join in protecting the oceans for the benefit of future generations.