President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the global community, particularly African nations, to seize the investment opportunities within Nigeria’s burgeoning blue economy. This appeal was made during the 2024 International Maritime Conference, held at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of a secure and prosperous maritime future, urging the Nigerian Navy, its African partners, and other stakeholders to work towards this goal. "Nigeria cannot afford to fail in its responsibilities to Africa and the world at large," Tinubu stated.
In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Tinubu highlighted the vital role of a progressive naval force in achieving a flourishing blue economy. He praised the Nigerian Navy as the "lifeguards of our maritime environment."
The President's speech, entitled "It’s Time to Secure Our Maritime Future," underscored the immense economic potential of the blue economy. Tinubu noted that the global blue economy is valued at over $1.5 trillion annually, with projections to reach $15.5 trillion by 2050. He emphasized that Africa's blue economy, currently generating nearly $300 billion and creating 49 million jobs, is expected to grow to $405 billion by 2030.
Tinubu congratulated the Nigerian Navy on its 68th anniversary, acknowledging its crucial role in national security and stability. He commended the Navy’s efforts in the anti-crude oil theft crusade, which has significantly boosted oil production levels since he took office in 2023.
Vice President Shettima, on behalf of the President, inaugurated three newly acquired naval ships—Nigerian Navy Ships OCHUZO, CHALAWA, and ZUR—as well as two helicopters, Nigerian Navy 412 and 414. Shettima also opened the Regional Maritime Exercise and inspected the Seaward Defence Boats project, praising the Navy’s contributions to maritime security.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, highlighted the conference's role in enhancing the Navy’s capabilities and strengthening collaborations to protect Nigeria’s maritime environment. Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, urged innovative approaches to naval operations, aligning with President Tinubu's vision for a secure maritime future.
Deputy Governor of Lagos, Obafemi Hamzat, acknowledged the Navy's achievements in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and emphasized the conference’s role in showcasing the country’s maritime heritage.
The event saw attendance from various dignitaries, including Senate Committee on Navy Chairman, Sen. Gbenga Daniel, chiefs of navies across Africa, maritime sector heads, former Chiefs of Naval Staff, senior military officers, and representatives of the Oba of Lagos.
