The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has unveiled plans to expand the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, also known as the Deep Blue Project, as part of efforts to sustain maritime security and drive growth in fisheries.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this during a meeting with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), noting that a proposal has already been submitted to the Federal Government for the project’s upgrade.
Oyetola said the Deep Blue Project has played a key role in Nigeria’s sustained zero piracy record for over four years, attributing the achievement to enhanced surveillance and coordinated use of air, land and sea assets.
He explained that improved maritime security has boosted investor confidence, increased shipping traffic and reduced insurance premiums, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea, once considered a high-risk maritime region.
The minister added that expanding the project would consolidate these gains and further position Nigeria as a regional leader in maritime security while strengthening the country’s blue economy.
On fisheries, Oyetola said the government is intensifying efforts to reduce reliance on fish imports by boosting local production. He revealed that output rose from 1.1 million metric tonnes to 1.4 million metric tonnes in 2025, marking the first significant increase in a decade.
‘The initiatives are underway to revive fishing terminals and support artisanal fish farmers nationwide, with the aim of achieving self-sufficiency and expanding export capacity’ he said.
The minister announced that the United States has approved Nigeria’s Turtle Excluder Device certification, enabling Nigerian shrimp exports to access U.S. and European markets.
He noted that the development is expected to increase foreign exchange earnings and create jobs across the fisheries value chain.
Earlier, NESG Chief Executive Officer, Tayo Aduloju, commended the ministry’s National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a framework for sustainable resource management, improved governance and private sector participation.
He also praised Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the ministry and advancing reforms aimed at strengthening the economy.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the ministry and other stakeholders in the marine and blue economy sector.