The Ondo State Government has unveiled a bold Blue Economy Agenda designed to harness marine and aquatic resources for sustainable development, economic diversification, and large-scale job creation.
The initiative was launched at the 2025 Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency (OSEPA) Summit, with the government projecting that the program will create over 10,000 jobs, boost the state’s GDP, and build a more resilient and inclusive economy.
A Strategic Shift in Economic Planning
Declaring the summit open, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, described the theme “Harnessing the Blue Economy for Sustainable Development in Ondo State” as a clarion call to rethink and reengineer the state’s economic future.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making the blue economy a strategic pillar of the “OUR EASE” agenda. According to him, the initiative is aimed at:
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Generating over 10,000 jobs.
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Boosting Ondo State’s GDP.
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Promoting environmental sustainability.
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Enhancing food security through fisheries and aquaculture.
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Empowering youths with marine-related training in engineering, fisheries management, and ocean-tech innovations.
The governor also pledged community-based campaigns against waterway pollution, reaffirmed his administration’s Zero Waste Philosophy, and called for collective responsibility in protecting blue resources for future generations.
Harnessing Vast Aquatic Potential
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, described the summit as a gathering of “thought leaders and innovators” determined to unlock Ondo State’s aquatic wealth.
He highlighted that the state’s 75-kilometre Atlantic coastline and expansive inland waterways offer immense opportunities for job creation, food security, tourism, and economic diversification. Commending the governor’s foresight, Dr. Loko stressed that the blue economy is key to inclusive growth and environmental sustainability.
Youth-Centric Economic Transformation
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, represented by Miss Leah Akinfiresoye, hailed the blue economy initiative as a paradigm shift that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship.
He pointed out the untapped opportunities in sustainable fishing, marine energy, tourism, and maritime transportation, while emphasizing that empowering youths—who make up more than 70% of Nigeria’s population—remains central to unlocking sustainable progress.
A Path to Sustainable Prosperity
With this agenda, Ondo State positions itself as a pioneer in Nigeria’s blue economy drive. If successfully implemented, the initiative is expected not only to create jobs and drive economic growth but also to secure the state’s natural resources for generations to come.
