The representatives of the two countries disclosed this during separate meetings with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, at his office in Abuja.
Ambassador Jessye Lapenn, the Senior Coordinator for Atlantic Cooperation, led the US delegation, while the UK was represented by its High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery.
Speaking during the visit, Lapenn said the United States government was willing to offer technical aid to the ministry with a view to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through the sector.
She stated that the two countries would be exploring technology to solve some of the challenges in the Marine and Blue economy sector.
The UK High Commissioner, Montgomery, on his part, expressed his country’s readiness to partner the Nigerian Government in tackling the challenge of illegal fishing in Nigeria’s waters.
He applauded the decision of Oyetola to embark on a PPP arrangement in terms of investment in the sector.
Furthermore, he said that the British Government was willing to share information and precautionary lessons with Nigeria to protect her marine resources.
Responding, the minister thanked the teams for their visit and promised that Nigeria, through the newly created Marine and Blue Economy ministry, would be willing to develop coastal tourism and create a conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive. The Minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing the Atlantic Cooperation Initiative declarations.