The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) says the success of Nigeria’s blue economy agenda depends on the collective action of agencies involved in implementing the policy.
The Director General, Retired Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia, made this known at the close of a three-day executive programme on Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy, organised by the institute in Apapa.
Retired Admiral Udofia, noted that the programme also reflects IMION’s commitment to leveraging technology in positioning itself as a centre of excellence for maritime affairs in Nigeria.
He pointed out that the institute’s programmes span key areas such as maritime security, the blue economy, ocean governance, environmental sustainability, and energy security.
The DG stressed that the blue economy encompasses a wide range of industrial and service sectors, involving diverse stakeholders, including those in the knowledge industry, engaged in marine research, as well as operators in aquaculture and biotechnology.
On her part a consultant of the institute Dr Mfon Usoro said that the absence of marine spatial planning in Nigeria poses significant challenges to effective coordination among stakeholders.
Dr Usoro noted that marine spatial planning would harmonise the activities of various stakeholders by clearly designating specific areas for particular uses, including protected marine zones.
The three-day executive programme on Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy, had in attendance the military ,paramilitary and maritime stake holders .
Reporting By Mary Fatile