The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has officially inaugurated the Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy. The new centre is established to actively promote research, innovation, and sustainable development within Nigeria's crucial maritime sector.

The facility was named in honour of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, in recognition of his pivotal role in advancing the nation's blue economy agenda.

During the ceremony, the institution also conferred upon Dr. Oyetola the Award of Honourary Fellow of the Centre for Management and Leadership, acknowledging his broad contributions to national development.

Delivering the maiden Distinguished Lecture, titled "The Nexus Between Blue Economy and Higher Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria," Dr. Oyetola described the blue economy as "a transformative pathway for sustainable national growth, driven by the responsible use of ocean, sea, and inland water resources."

He pointed out that Nigeria's 853 kilometre coastline and its vast network of inland waterways offer immense potential for economic diversification, job creation, and food security. However, this potential can only be realised, he noted, if the nation invests strategically in education, innovation, and strong governance structures.

According to the Minister, the blue economy extends beyond the exploitation of marine resources to integrate economic prosperity with environmental sustainability and social inclusion.

He stated that sectors such as maritime transport, aquaculture, coastal tourism, marine biotechnology, and renewable ocean energy could make significant contributions to Nigeria's GDP if effectively harnessed.

Mr Oyetola emphasised the crucial role of higher education in unlocking this potential by equipping Nigerians with the technical expertise and research capacity required to drive growth in the maritime industry.

He urged universities to align their curricula with industry needs, promote interdisciplinary research, and strengthen collaboration with government and private sector partners.

Highlighting the Ministry's reforms, Oyetola revealed that sectoral revenue had increased from N700.79 billion in 2023 to N1.39 trillion in 2024 achieved through improved efficiency and transparency rather than tariff increases.

This, he said, demonstrated the impact of sound policy direction, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and accountability-driven governance.

Among key initiatives under his leadership, the Minister cited the National Seafarers Development Programme, which trains 1,000 youths annually for maritime careers.

He also mentioned the Nigerian government's investments in modernising port infrastructure, developing deep-sea ports across coastal states, and expanding aquaculture and fisheries to boost food security and reduce import dependency.

Dr Oyetola commended the University of Ilorin for its forward-looking initiative in establishing the Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy, describing it as "a milestone in linking academic research with national development."

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, said that the university was proud to celebrate individuals whose leadership had significantly advanced governance, education, and sustainable development in Nigeria.

The event formed part of the university's 1st Distinguished Lecture and Conferment of Award Ceremony, organised by the UNILORIN Centre for Advancement.