The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has commenced a five-day workshop focused on “Innovative Strategies for Growing the Blue Economy,” aimed at fostering sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector. The event, held at the IMION Auditorium, NNS Quorra, Harbour Road, Apapa, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, scholars, and maritime experts to chart a course for the nation’s blue economy potential.
Rear Admiral (rtd.) Thaddeus Udofia, Director General of IMION, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the pivotal role of the maritime sector in Nigeria’s economic growth. He emphasized the institute’s mission of advancing governance, building capacity, and facilitating public-private collaboration to unlock the vast opportunities within the blue economy while preserving the ecosystem for future generations.
“Nigeria’s 853-kilometer coastline and strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea present enormous potential for economic development. IMION was established to complement government efforts by addressing critical maritime issues such as governance, security, hydrography, climate change, and the blue economy,” Udofia stated.
The workshop aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustainable development, as well as the mandate of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions on topics such as sustainable fisheries, renewable energy, maritime transportation, and coastal tourism.
Udofia emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration and stakeholder engagement, noting that the success of the blue economy requires coordinated efforts from both public and private sectors.
“This workshop serves as a strategic platform for stakeholders to meet, strategize, and exchange innovative ideas to improve the blue economy for the prosperity of Nigeria and humanity,” he said.
The workshop also seeks to address pressing challenges in the maritime environment, including security threats and capacity deficits. IMION plays a crucial role in training professionals in hydrography and other specialized areas to ensure that Nigeria meets the growing demand for skilled maritime experts.
“We are focused on building the capacity of personnel to manage the blue economy effectively. By the end of this training, participants will have enhanced skills and knowledge to contribute to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector,” Udofia added.
Udofia urged maritime industry stakeholders to take advantage of the resources and training provided by IMION.
“The expertise we seek abroad is now available within our borders. I encourage stakeholders to leverage this institute to develop their personnel, ensuring productive results for the blue economy, both nationally and globally,” he said.
Inaugurated on June 1, 2024, IMION is a specialized maritime institution dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s blue economy. Its focus on research, policy advocacy, and capacity building positions it as a strategic partner in addressing maritime challenges and fostering economic prosperity.
The workshop is expected to culminate with actionable strategies and recommendations to enhance Nigeria’s role in the global maritime sector, ensuring sustainable development and environmental stewardship.