Ondo Unveils Strategic Blue Economy Agenda at OSEPA Summit

Ondo State Government has unveiled a robust Blue Economy Agenda aimed at harnessing the vast marine and aquatic resources to drive sustainable development and economic diversification. The agenda was launched at the 2025 Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency (OSEPA) Summit, held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure.

Representing Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti described the summit theme, “Harnessing the Blue Economy for Sustainable Development in Ondo State,” as a decisive call to reimagine the state’s economic prospects. The governor’s administration is embedding the blue economy as a core element of its “OUR EASE” agenda with several initiatives, including the development of a Blue Economy Master Plan to attract investments and promote ecological stewardship.

Key initiatives feature the promotion of eco-friendly fishing techniques, erosion control, biodiversity conservation, and fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) to attract investments in aquaculture, renewable ocean energy, and marine trade. Moreover, the agenda includes human capital development by empowering youth through OSOPADEC and other agencies in fisheries, ocean technology, and related sectors.

The initiative targets the creation of over 10,000 jobs, boosting Ondo State’s GDP, and building an economy grounded in sustainability principles. Additionally, the government pledges community campaigns to combat waterway pollution aligned with its Zero Waste Philosophy, emphasizing collective responsibility to safeguard blue resources for future generations.

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Commissioner for Environment Dr. Tob Loko underscored the state’s 75-kilometre Atlantic coastline and extensive inland waterways as pivotal assets for job creation, food security, and economic diversification. He lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership in positioning the blue economy as a key driver of inclusive growth and environmental sustainability.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, represented by Miss Leah Akinfiresoye, highlighted the blue economy as a paradigm shift balancing growth with environmental stewardship. The minister emphasized the importance of youth empowerment—critical for Nigeria’s demographic—with opportunities ranging from sustainable fishing to marine energy, tourism, and maritime transportation.

The summit also featured technical sessions with expert presentations on blue economy harnessing, plastic pollution challenges, innovative technology, and climate change impacts. Speakers included Dr. Olusegun Dada (FUTA), Mr. Idowu Oluwadare (IPAN), Prof. Victor Olumekun (AAUA), and Dr. (Mrs.) Olujumoke Ogunrayi (University of Cape Town).

The summit closed with a communiqué advocating key strategies for responsible and sustainable utilization of Ondo State’s blue resources, affirming the government’s commitment to sustainable marine economic development.

This launch aligns with broader state efforts such as Operation Safe Ondo Waters and partnerships with international bodies like WorldFish to promote sustainable aquaculture and generate green jobs. Ondo’s blue economy plans are projected to tap into the global blue economy estimated at $24 trillion, positioning the state as a leader in marine-based economic growth and environmental stewardship within Nigeria and the region.