Nigeria’s ambition to build a sustainable Marine and Blue Economy gained major momentum as policymakers, regulators, academics, and private-sector players convened for the maiden International Conference and Trade Exhibition on Marine and Blue Economy hosted by the Institute of Maritime Studies, Niger Delta University.
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr Pius Akutah, MON, said the country’s Blue Economy growth will remain impossible without strong, coordinated, multi-stakeholder partnerships.
In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Director of the Consumer Affairs Department, Mrs Ify Okolue, Dr Akutah reaffirmed the Shippers’ Council’s mandate as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator.
He said the Blue Economy offers “vast opportunities for economic diversification, job creation, improved maritime security, and enhanced community resilience,” particularly across coastal communities in the Niger Delta.
The Chairman of IMABEC 2025, Hon Indutimi Komonibo, told participants that the Blue Economy represents a new frontier capable of redefining Nigeria’s development model. He said the sector extends beyond oil dependence and opens up avenues for innovation, maritime entrepreneurship, coastal infrastructure development, renewable energy, fisheries, logistics, and tourism.
The three-day event ended with a gala night during which institutions and individuals were recognised for their contributions to the sector.
Dr Akutah received an award for his “Significant Contribution Towards Efforts in Promoting a Sustainable Marine and Blue Economy,” especially for his role in resolving disputes within the maritime community—an intervention organisers said strengthened the Council’s visibility and sectoral impact.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council was also honoured for “Outstanding Service in the Maritime Space,” an award organisers described as a testament to the agency’s growing relevance in sectoral reforms.
Conference organisers said the event deepened high-level dialogue and set a clear agenda for strengthening collaboration, accelerating innovation, and advancing Nigeria’s broader economic diversification efforts through the development of a resilient Blue Economy.