The Nigerian Association of Master Mariners has stated that the association is not only well-prepared to support the blue economy drive but has also been at the forefront of advocating best practices long before the term became mainstream locally.
The National President of the NAMM, Captain Tajudeen Alao, stated this recently in Lagos during the association’s first quarterly paper presentation.
This is coming at a time when Nigeria is seeking to diversify its economy through ocean-based industries and develop a robust governance structure that will enhance investment, create jobs, and protect the marine ecosystem.
Alao explained that the event was designed to engage stakeholders and deepen public understanding of the evolving concept of the marine and blue economy.
He called on the Federal Government to designate a coordinating minister for the blue economy, stressing that such a step is crucial for structured and sustainable marine sector development in Nigeria.
“Nigerian master mariners are not only well-prepared to support the blue economy drive but have been at the forefront of advocating best practices long before the term became mainstream locally,” Alao said.
Alao emphasised the need for streamlined leadership and direct knowledge flow within the sector, highlighting that the role of the association is to advise government, regulators, and stakeholders on the most sustainable approaches to maritime development.
According to him, the blue economy concept is still not well understood by many. “People view it from different angles. What this presentation has done is provide proper insights into what it truly means and how we can move forward. The essence of our association is to guide and support with professional advice. “We are always ready to lend our support when called upon,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government to act swiftly on this recommendation, noting that doing so would strengthen institutional coordination, promote strategic leadership, and position Nigeria as a leading player in the global blue economy space.
Capt. Ebubeogu, delivering his lecture titled ‘Governance of Marine Spaces in a Marine and Blue Economy Model – Issues, Challenges, and Approach’, stressed that the growing complexity and overlapping mandates of various government agencies operating within Nigeria’s marine environment necessitate a centralised and empowered leadership structure.
He noted that while the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the recent approval of the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy were commendable developments, a more structured and authoritative governance approach is required for Nigeria to fully tap into the economic and ecological potential of its marine spaces.
Ebubeogu emphasised that effective coordination is essential for aligning national objectives with the principles of sustainability, economic growth, and environmental protection, key components of the blue economy framework.
He added that marine spaces serve as the foundational platform upon which blue economy activities such as fisheries, tourism, marine transport, offshore energy, and aquaculture are built.
