Tunji Wusu –
Adegboyega Oyetola, the newly appointed Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has stated that he finds it challenging to hold such a position in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He spoke on Monday evening in Abuja outside the reception that the APC chapter in Osun State and other stakeholders hosted for him.
The minister assured that he would succeed in the presidential mandate granted to him, even if he acknowledged that it was difficult for him to be chosen to lead a new ministry.
Oyetola praised President Bola Tinubu for thinking highly enough of him to appoint him as a minister.
In addition, he extended his gratitude to the event’s organizers, stating that the amount of solidarity shown had inspired him to do even more for Nigerians.
The minister continued by saying that in order for the new ministry to be successful, he would want the participation and support of all parties.
I express my gratitude to Almighty God for giving me this magnificent opportunity to serve, as well as to the Osun people for traveling so far to join me in this celebration.
The fact that individuals from all walks of life, including traditional rulers, have come to rejoice with me makes me very happy.
“I find it challenging to be appointed a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since the position carries a great deal of responsibility.
“I ask the All-Powerful to help me out.
As this is a new ministry, he explained, “I will have to start from scratch. I trust God Almighty to succeed and carry out my new mandate.”
Sen. Iyiola Omisore, the APC’s most recent National Secretary, also spoke at the occasion and called Oyetola’s appointment “a round peg in a round hole.”
He expressed confidence that Oyetola would fulfill his new responsibility.
Former interim national chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande, praised Oyetola’s appointment and stated the people of Osun were honored.
The nomination, according to Akande, a former governor of Osun, has revived the people’s faith in both the Tinubu-led administration and the Nigerian project.
The APC leader thanked the president for the appointment and wished Oyetola a fruitful term in office.
According to The News Agency of Nigeria, Oyetola had already described his vision for a strong blue economy sector that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and economic growth upon taking office.
The minister praised the rich maritime resources present in the nation’s coastline region on Monday at his first news conference at the Ministry of Transportation.
He emphasized the importance of fully utilizing the nation’s marine resources.
The minister added that he would encourage improved inter-agency coordination and cooperation between the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, Nigerian Ports Authority, and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.
“As someone with a solid background in the private sector, we shall encourage increased private sector inclusion while promoting better efficiency through specialization and the efficient delineation of fundamental responsibilities amongst the units.
The minister had remarked, “We must seize this opportunity to create positive change, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as traditional leaders, Osun House of Assembly members, diplomats, and others attended the reception.