Emmanuel Daudu
In a remarkable celebration of leadership and innovation, the University of Ilorin on Thursday, October 16, 2025, conferred an Honorary Fellowship on the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for his outstanding contributions to national development and visionary service to Nigeria.
The recognition, which took place during the institution’s 1st Distinguished Lecture and Conferment of Award Ceremony at the University Auditorium, also featured the unveiling of the Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy a landmark initiative to promote research, innovation, and sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The event, organised by the UNILORIN Centre for Advancement, was graced by dignitaries including the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was also conferred an Honorary Fellowship, traditional rulers, government representatives, academics, and students.
Delivering the maiden distinguished lecture titled “The Nexus Between Blue Economy and Higher Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” Dr. Oyetola underscored the immense potential of the blue economy as a driver of sustainable national growth.
He noted that Nigeria’s 853-kilometre coastline and extensive waterways could transform the economy through strategic investment in education, innovation, and strong governance.
“The blue economy is not just about exploiting marine resources, it is about creating a balance between economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion,” he said.
The Minister revealed that reforms within the Ministry have significantly improved revenue, rising from ₦700.79 billion in 2023 to ₦1.39 trillion in 2024, driven by transparency and operational efficiency rather than tariff hikes.
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Oyetola mentioned the National Seafarers Development Programme, which trains 1,000 youths annually for maritime careers, and the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise ports, expand aquaculture, and boost food security.
He reaffirmed the importance of public-private collaboration in sustaining progress, citing the Lekki Deep Sea Port and upcoming projects in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ondo, and Rivers States as key catalysts for job creation and foreign investment.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), commended Dr. Oyetola and Governor AbdulRazaq for their transformative leadership and commitment to national progress.
The unveiling of the Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy marked the high point of the ceremony. The Centre is expected to serve as a hub for research, policy innovation, and youth capacity building in sustainable marine management.
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