By Omolola Dede Adeyanju
The Honorable Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola CON, has envisaged the renaissance of Ehingbeti as a pathway to Foster the economic growth and address social economic challenges in the entire west Africa.
The minister was ably represented by Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola on Friday, in Lagos at the launching of the book; “The renaissance of Ehingbeti”, written by President, Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Williams violet.
In his words, “Lagos has always been a leader in Nigeria economic development, its bustling ports and dynamic economy of the Marine Industry”. Stating that the blue economy opens a new paradigm shift, one that moves beyond the traditional exploitation of marine resources to a holistic approach that considers environmental, social and economic impacts.
However, the minister highlighted several challenges facing the sector and confirmed his administration to be focused on enhancing infrastructure, developing robust blue economic policies, implementation plans and strengthening regulatory frameworks that will spur growth in the maritime sector.
He established that Illegal and unregulated fishing will be a thing of the past, enhancing relevant marine security capabilities, sustainable blue economy investment, and using the PPP model to drive investment. Alhaji Oyetola therefore reiterated the synergy with all relevant stakeholders in the industry, driven most importantly towards creating employment in the maritime sector.
“We must come together to protect and preserve our ocean and Marine resources. Lagos is a hub of business, innovations and economic growth, hence the renaissance of Ehingbeti will continue to Foster the economic growth and address social economic challenges.” He added.
However, the President, ocean Ambassadors Foundation and Author of The book; ‘The renaissance of Ehingbeti in the Lagos blue economy’ Mrs Olaitan Williams Violet, during her welcome address in the book launch and the inauguration of the second Ehingbeti project, examined the history of Ehingbeti, the vibrant waterfront that has played a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of Eko.
Through the book, Mrs Violet explained, “We are not only acknowledging the past but charting a new course for the future. A future that is duly intertwined with the blue economy.
“The blue economy encompasses the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihood and the preservation of the Marine ecosystem, an approach that encompasses the mass potentials of our Waters.”
Noting the prevalence of climate change degradation and economic instability, the Author expressed that the blue economy paves a path for us to move forward, indicating its relevance to our health, economic development and environment.
“The book is not just a book but a blueprint for the future of the blue economy and its transformation, it captures the strategic innovations, initiative that has been put in place to harness Lagos Waters. Through detailed analysis and insightful perspectives, the book details out the opportunities, challenges and road map of Lagos to emerge as a global leader in the blue economy. In particular, in partnership with financial institutions like BOI, sustainable Development goals 17.
“As we unveil this book, we are also taking a bold step to the unveiling of the second Ehingbeti project which is an expansion of our vision, a testament to our commitment for sustainability, innovations and inclusivity. The project will focus on sustainable fisheries, renewable Marine energy, Marine transportation and eco-tourism. All critical sectors that will drive economic growth and create jobs. While ensuring the health of our marine ecosystem.” She confirmed.
Furthermore, the Chairman of the day, Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Lagos state, Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, Mon narrated the history of Ehingbeti, he said, “Going back to memory lane, in history, when we had one of Our forefathers who was a ruler in Lagos, Late Oba Akinsemoyin as reported by historians who channeled their messages through songs.
“The song made reference to the time when the Portuguese were sailing round the world, Oba Akinsemoyin was concerned about the prosperity and commerce of Lagos, so they consulted the Oracle, ‘Ifa’. Ifa said they should put heaps of oranges, bananas and other fruits at the waterfront alongside a white flag.
“When the Portuguese saw the flag, they realized that there was a settlement there. They took some fruits because they were out of stock, there they met the representatives of the OBA called the ‘oniru’ who was the priest in charge of appeasing the ocean, the oniru led them to the palace and they landed in that place called idumagbo. Since then our fathers realized the contacts of the ocean as they lead to the entire universe. That was the beginning of our connection to the civilized world.” He narrated.
The chairman further reminisced on the history of the significance of the ocean as he mentioned several obas who walked to the ocean, being joined with the community to present sacrifices to the ocean. All these signifying the relevance of the blue economy. “In those days, he said, “all houses had fishing equipment, but today in the whole of sangotedo you cannot get a single fisherman. We have materials for potential tourism in Lagos.” Therefore he urged the state government to take cognizance of the discussions, recommendations and called on everyone to support the development of the blue economy.
Noting that several people always rely solely on the government, he urged, ‘We have to start bringing attention to ourselves and how we treat our environment so we can teach our children for the development of our country.’ the chairman advised.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director, Lagos management transport Authority, LAMATA, Abimbola Akinajo, represented by Mr Kolawole Ojelabi, stated that the Blue economy is also represented by three substantial pillars, namely; economic, social and environmental pillars. “With transport planning we have prioritized the use of our waterways for the movement of our people and goods from the riverine areas to economic centers.”
For gender inclusiveness, the MD explained that Lagos State has created a blue economy that caters for the needs of all. “On the transport authorities, our planning recognizes the integration of all transport modes including water transportation. We are currently constructing two transport interchange hubs at Marina and mile 2, these two important areas of Lagos already have transport infrastructures.” he said.
Also, the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, Hrm Oba Maroof Oyekunle Amodu-Tijani disclosed his unswerving interest in the blue economy despite undergoing a mini surgery the previous day, he deemed it necessary to be present because of the discourse. While noting that Ehingbeti is the first point of call as far as marine business is concerned in the whole of west Africa he examined the essence of the coastal areas, how each family used to have fishing equipment in their homes as against its reverse situation in the present era.
The Oba lauded Mrs Williams for her courage and resilience in bringing the course of Ehingbeti to the whole world, for all to know that after the oil leaves, the water will remain and will continue to be there. “Hence it is Paramount that the blue economy is advocated for” he added.