Oluchi Chibuzor
Key stakeholders in the maritime sector have enunciated fresh measures to be adopted to ensure that the Blue Economy contributes tremendously to the development of the Nigerian society.
They stated this during ta roundtable, titled, “How to Achieve the Benefits of the Blue Economy,” organized by League of Maritime Editors’ (LOME) held in Lagos.
Speaking, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Bashir Jamoh, said the blue economy is already operational, but required the proper identification of comparative advantages for the purpose of what is potentially advantageous and sustainable.
Jamoh who was represented by the Director External Relations, Isichie Osamgbi, challenged industry players and operators to see themselves as co-drivers in the journey towards the success of the Blue economy , saying without this , the success story of the Blue economy cannot be complete.
He disclosed that, whereas the blue economy in Nigeria is still unfolding, it is at the stage where a collaboration of efforts must concentrate at optimizing the comparative advantages in order to remain competitive in the global space.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko represented by the Tin Can Island Port Manager, Jibril Buba, advocated enhanced capacities through deliberate policy and stakeholders’ actions necessary to drive the processes.
Bello-Koko said the authority has for a long time already prepared the grounds for its takeoff and consistent with the full realization is always providing the enabling environment through which the required efficiencies, competences and capacities can be developed and sustained.
The NPA boss commended LOME for the acquisition of its secretariat, which has been designed to also serve as Centre for Media Advocacy, noting that the place will serve as catalyst for positive change in the industry.
In his contribution, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) Hon Emmanuel Jime represented by the Council’s Director Consumer Affairs Department, Chief Cajetan Agu, described blue economy, as having huge economic potentials that should be harnessed by all.
Describing Nigeria as a blessed country in terms of the abundance of Blue Economy, he said what is needed is to harness the potential of the blue economy.
