By Innocent Orok
As the world turns its attention to the oceans, Nigeria is set to join the global maritime community in commemorating the 2025 World Maritime Day on Thursday, September 25, in Lagos. With the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” The event will spotlight the urgent need for sustainable use of ocean resources while exploring the immense economic opportunities they hold.
The commemoration, which will be hosted under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, comes at a pivotal time when the conversation on oceans has shifted from mere exploitation to long-term preservation. It is a reminder that the health of the seas—critical for climate regulation, trade, and human survival—rests on the collective responsibility of nations and individuals.
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, emphasized that safeguarding ocean resources requires shared responsibility between government and citizens. He urged Nigerians to view the maritime sector not only as a hub of national wealth creation but also as a legacy for future generations.
“The ocean offers immense opportunities for trade, food security, and tourism, but these opportunities can only be realized through collective commitment to sustainable practices,” Oyetola said, ahead of the Lagos event.
Echoing this call, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr Arsenio Dominguez, underscored the ocean’s central role in regulating climate, sustaining life, and enabling global commerce. He cautioned that human activities—ranging from pollution to overfishing—are exerting dangerous pressure on marine ecosystems.
“While human activity has caused the damage, it also holds the key to restoring the ocean—presenting both a responsibility and an opportunity for a healthier, safer future,” Dominguez said in his World Maritime Day message.
This year’s celebration in Lagos is expected to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and other stakeholders to reflect on the twin imperatives of preservation and opportunity. Discussions will focus on how best to integrate sustainability into maritime operations while ensuring oceans remain a driver of economic growth.
By aligning with the IMO’s global vision, Nigeria aims to position its marine and blue economy as both a guardian of ecological integrity and a catalyst for development. The event also serves as a rallying point for the nation to showcase its growing commitment to international maritime standards and ocean governance.
As the world commemorates World Maritime Day, one message is clear: the ocean’s future depends on humanity’s present choices—choices that will determine whether it remains a source of life and opportunity or a casualty of neglect.
