In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the first ever Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy came into existence as a novel development in the annals of Nigeria’s socio-economic and political history when the President announced its creation in August, 2023. As a coastal nation, Nigeria is endowed with vast marine resources that have the potential to contribute significantly to its economic development. Many economic observers see the blue economy as a new frontier for economic development and a means of diversifying the economy through the use of resources from oceans, seas, rivers and lakes for the wellbeing of the people.
The need for a National Blue Economy Summit and Expo in Nigeria arises from the imperative to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and drive investment in the sustainable development of the country’s marine and maritime sectors. This event will provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions, share knowledge, and showcase innovations and best practices in blue economy development. It will also serve as a catalyst for policy formulation and strategic partnerships aimed at unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime resources. It is essentially, an annual event that seeks to showcase the potentials of the Nigerian marine and blue economy as a sector ripped for massive investment opportunities, promote economic activities and growth that will boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is therefore, a contribution of the necessary steps in the continuum of activities and actions for awakening the economic potential of the Nigerian marine and blue economy through the provision of series of action-oriented and implementable dialogues with multi- faceted stakeholders.
The concept of the "blue economy" emphasizes the suitable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of marine and coastal ecosystems. Recognising the untapped potential of its maritime resources, Nigeria stands to benefit greatly from the development of its blue economy.
NBESE attracts, sustains, connects, and advances stakehlders and key players in strengthening the growth of the marine economy. Our goal is to stimulate massive investment in the Nigeria marine industry for sustainable economic growth and development.
The goal of the National Blue Economy Summit and Expo is to have action- oriented discussions pertaining to a sustainable blue economy strategy that is people-centric, with ocean-centric investments.
Featuring keynote addresses and panel discussions by government officials, industry leaders, and international experts on blue economy policies, best practices, and success stories.
Showcasing innovative products, technologies, and services related to the blue economy, including sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture technologies, marine conservation initiatives, and eco-friendly maritime transportation solutions.
Concurrent sessions focused on specific themes such as sustainable fisheries management, marine spatial planning, ocean renewable energy, tourism, marine biotechnology, Marine debris, Fisheries, blue carbon, biodiversity, food safety, Shipping and Port facilities, Aquaculture, Energy, submarine mining, blue planet, governance and international cooperation.
Interactive sessions bringing together policymakers, researchers, and industry representatives to discuss regulatory frameworks, legal frameworks, and governance mechanisms for the blue economy.
