Blue Economy: Key to Youth Empowerment, Oyetola declares

... As NIMASA DG assures of continued investments in capacity projects targeted at youths

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has tasked Nigerian youths to take advantage of the potential in the maritime sector so as to contribute immensely to the diversification initiatives of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Similarly, the minister urged the youths to shun vices that could hinder their growth but embrace hard work, discipline, decency, and selflessness that would make them responsible members of the society.

This is even as the Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency ( NIMASA) Dr. Dayo Mobereola assured that the Agency would continue to invest in capacity development and projects targeted at the youths.

Oyetola spoke at the University of Lagos' Employment Clinic conference, on Thursday,
held at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, where he delivered a keynote address on the immense potential of Nigeria’s blue economy and its role in youth empowerment.

The conference, tagged "Blue Industry Career Insights," was organised by the University in collaboration with Employment Clinic, under the Employment Transition Programme (EETP) of the University. The event brought together key stakeholders from the marine and blue economy sector to discuss career opportunities for young Nigerians.

Oyetola, who focused on the untapped potential of Nigeria’s blue economy and the vital role young people can play in its development, urged them to explore these opportunities, pursue their passions, and contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

"As you are all aware, the certificates that you will receive from this university at the end of your programme are awarded to you on the basis of character and learning. In the order of importance, character comes before learning. It is character that opens the door to knowledge and keeps it open until you are done with your courses and a degree is awarded to you. I, therefore, urge you as youths to shun vices that could hinder your growth.

"The world is replete with persons of talents but is looking for persons of character, who are in short supply. You are, therefore, enjoined to be good ambassadors of the university and Nigeria by displaying the highest level of character anywhere you find yourself," Oyetola said.

The Minister highlighted some of the career opportunities in the sector to include maritime shipping, shipbuilding, ports infrastructure, coastal tourism, fishing, offshore renewable energy, marine and biotechnology, among others.

"The blue economy is not just about the sea; it is about the myriad of opportunities that lie within it. Our youth must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to harness these opportunities and drive Nigeria’s economic transformation."

Oyetola also outlined several government initiatives aimed at fostering job creation in the blue economy as specialized training and certification programmes, international exchange programmes with maritime institutes, partnerships with private sector companies for internships and practical experience, and scholarships for students pursuing maritime studies.

Oyetola told his audience: "Your future is bright, and the maritime industry awaits your talents and ambitions. Together, we can build a prosperous and sustainable future for Nigeria."

Welcoming the minister earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, described the event as a history making one, designed to hone the career trajectory of the undergraduates.

She thanked the minister for honouring the university's invite, saying " our doors are wide open to industry partnership for career development services for our students. The maritime sector is the second largest contributor to the country's GDP. Therefore, as an institution, our goal is to align with the government's mission of diversifying the economy.

"We are happy and honoured to have the minister speak to us here because it is a rarity you have a minister speak to you. I hope you will be back to share your memories with us, using our jetty by the time we are done with the construction, " the VC added.

Also speaking at the event, the NIMASA DG stated that the Agency is working at concluding the construction of the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Lagos building which is almost at 70 percent completion stage.

"Institute of Maritime Studies was established by NIMASA in Universities across the six geo political zones of the country. They provide specialized training and research in maritime studies, addressing the needs of the maritime industry in Nigeria and beyond.

"They offer courses and programmes that cover various aspects of maritime operations, management, and technology with Key areas of focus such as maritime law, shipping management, port operations, marine engineering, and logistics," the NIMASA DG added.NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @JimohYusuf @MojeedAderemi @BamideleOnifade NINTADELINE @BamideleOnifade @MojeedAderemi @JimohYusuf @AdemolaBello

Gov. Council: Profiling FUNAAB's Pro-Chancellor, Aragbiji, as Tinubu Inaugurates EduBoards

By Jimoh OLOREDE, PhD


Tomorrow, Thursday, Idris Abdulkadir Auditorium of the National University Commission (NUC) in the Federal Capital City of Abuja, will be agog as the Federal Government of Nigeria led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, inaugurates the newly constituted Governing Councils of Federal Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education under the Federal Ministry of Education headed by Hon. Minister, Professor Tahir Mamman.

One of the prominent appointees into the Federal Education Boards, not just as a member, but a Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, is a revered and foremost traditional ruler from Osun State, His Royal Majesty Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV. However, following a comprehensive review of the initially approved Board members' list as directed by President Bola Tinubu, Oba Olabomi's Pro-Chancellorship appointment has now been changed from the Federal University of Education (AFUED) Ondo, to the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAA. The profile of this great Monarch, as given below, suffices as it justifies the informed decision of Mr. President.

Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV, was born on Monday, October 29, 1962 into the Ajibode Ruling House, Iragbiji, in Boripe Local Government of Osun State. He ascended to the throne as the 15th Aragbiji of Iragbiji in 2008.

The Monarch's early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education. He commenced his primary education at the Local Authority Primary School, Poika Luku in Ife South Local Government of Osun State, and completed it at the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School, Kawo, Kaduna, in Kaduna State, in 1975. The then young Prince came back home for his Secondary School education which took him to Oke-Iragbiji Grammar School, where he graduated in 1980.

In 1983, he proceeded to Adeyemi College Ondo, where he studied History Education, and graduated in 1987. The Aragbiji later in 1992, sought admission into the prestigious University of Ilorin for a postgraduate academic pursuit, and in 1994, he was awarded Masters in Public Administration (MPA). Oba Ayotunde likes education so much that in 2006, he applied and was admitted by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to study Law, being his post-secondary preferred course of study. However, his serious commitment, traditional engagement and royal itineraries consequent upon his appointment and installation as the 15th Aragbiji in 2008, when he was already at 300 Level into his Law programme, could not take him further.

Until his royal accession in 2008, Oba Abdur-Rasheed was on the Local Government Service Commission starting from Oyo State in 1989, before the creation of Osun State in 1991, and rose through the promotion cadre to become a Director of Personnel Management, from where he left for the royalty. The Aragbiji’s ascension to the throne marked a new era for the kingdom, as he brought a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the traditional institution.

Under his leadership, Iragbiji has witnessed significant development and growth. Oba Abdur-Rasheed has prioritized infrastructure development, education, and youth empowerment. He has also promoted cultural heritage and traditional practices, ensuring the preservation of the kingdom's rich history and customs.

Oba Abdur-Rasheed is a respected figure in Osun State and beyond. He has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to community development and traditional leadership, including Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (FCIPM), Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Management (FCIM), and Fellowship of the Adeyemi Federal University of Education (FAFUED) Ondo in Ondo State, Nigeria. The seasoned administrator Oba is also a Fellow of the Osun State College of Technology (OSCOTECH) Esa-Oke, and Member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), among other several awards of recognition too numerous to mention.

As a Deputy Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas and First Class Monarch, Oba Abdur-Rasheed plays a vital role in promoting unity and cooperation among traditional rulers in the state. His wisdom and counsel are highly valued by his peers and humanity generally.

Despite his royal status, the Aragbiji is known for his humility and accessibility. He is beloved by his subjects, who appreciate his dedication to their welfare and well-being. His palace is always open to those seeking guidance, support, or a directional cause of action.

In his personal life, Oba Abdur-Rasheed is a devoted husband and father. He enjoys reading, traveling, and community service. His commitment to public service and traditional leadership has made him a shining example for future generations. Another sterling quality of the great Monarch is that he’s an excellent public Speaker. He travels far and wide with a handful of national and international network of social connections.

His Royal Majesty is a visionary leader and a champion of community development. His reign has brought significant progress and growth to Iragbiji, and his wisdom and counsel are highly valued throughout Osun State, Nigeria, and far beyond.

Oba Olabomi is highly committed to service to humanity which has earned him several local and international Awards including that of the University College Hospital, Ibadan as the only Monarch in Nigeria who sponsored about 3,000 of his subjects for eye treatment and surgical operations between 2009 and 2013 under the global Vision 2020 project.

The President's appointment of this great Monarch, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAA has been applauded by his subjects both at home and in the diaspora, and indeed, many Nigerians given the meritorious qualifications of the energetic traditional ruler, and it's on the credit of his merit that this icon of an enviable royalty is celebrated and congratulated.

Dr. Olorede is Head of Strategic Communication and Media Studies Department in a Nigerian Federal Institution of Higher Learning. He writes in via oloredejimoh@gmail.com.NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @JimohYusuf @MojeedAderemi @BamideleOnifade NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @JimohYusuf

Oyetola is best Minister in Nigeria - Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC)NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @JimohYusuf @MojeedAderemi @BambamOnif NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello

The Managing Director, @MohdBelloKoko_, represented by the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, presented a goodwill message at the celebration of the Day of the Seafarers.

To corroborate with the theme of this year, “Navigating the Future: Safety First,” the Managing Director highlighted the reconstruction of the Mission to Seafarers facility in Lagos to a regional best-in-class status as a demonstration of the Authority’s resolve to improve the safety and efficiency of seafarers in Nigeria.

Beyond the fanfare, @MohdBelloKoko_ called for increased support and commitment from the maritime community to the safety and well-being of seafarers.NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @JimohYusuf @MojeedAderemi @BambamOnif NINTADELINE @AdemolaBello @BambamOnif @MojeedAderemi

The Honorable Minister Adegboyega Oyetola celebrated with staff as three members of the Ministry were recognized for their outstanding performance at the recently concluded 2024 Civil Service Week Awards.

Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Transport Planning and Coordination, emerged as the overall winner, receiving the star prize of a JAC JS4 Jeep. Mrs. Chinwe Linda Chikelu E, Assistant Director of Funds, was awarded a Toyota Camry, and Ms. Fagbemi Idowu received a cash prize of N300,000.@BambamOnif @MojeedAderemi @BambamOnif @MojeedAderemi