Rivers State Set to Unlock Marine and Blue Economy Potentials, Deputy Governor Identifies Six Key Prospects

Rivers State Set to Unlock Marine and Blue Economy Potentials, Deputy Governor Identifies Six Key Prospects

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, has emphasized the importance of harnessing the power of the Marine and Blue Economy to unlock a future of prosperity, sustainable development, and economic resilience in the State. Speaking at the 2024 World Environment Day Celebration, organized by the Nigerian Environmental Society Rivers State Chapter, Prof. Odu identified six basic Marine and Blue Economy prospects in the State, including natural assets, biological assets, industrial assets, human capital assets, cultural and recreational assets, and technological assets.

The Deputy Governor stressed that concerted efforts are required from industry players, local communities, and international partners to support the Governor Fubara-led Administration in achieving this feat. She noted that the Marine and Blue Economy encompasses the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihood, and job creation, while ensuring the health of the marine ecosystem.

Prof. Odu revealed that Rivers State is endowed with strategic location along the coastal region and abundant marine resources, positioning it to embrace the Marine and Blue Economy as a catalyst for industrial transformation. However, she acknowledged existing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, and limited investments in capacity building and skills development, which must be addressed to harness the full potential of the marine and blue economy assets.

The Deputy Governor emphasized the need for adopting global best practices and localization, complemented by active stakeholder engagements, inclusive policy-making, and a robust framework for monitoring and evaluating progress towards industrial development through the marine and blue economy.

The event also featured goodwill messages from the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Joe Johnson, and the State Chairman of Nigerian Environmental Society, Sir Daminabo Amos Atuboyediya, who emphasized the importance of shaping policies that foster suitable blue economies and discussing regulatory frameworks, international collaboration, and best practices.

The event aimed to commemorate the 2024 World Environment Day and explore ways to unlock the immense assets of Rivers State's marine and blue economy for sustainable development.