Inadequate regulatory framework, outdated policies hindering Nigeria’s $296bn blue economy development- Expert

The Country Lead and Programme Adviser of the Global Digital Access Programme with the UK Government, Idongesit Udoh has said that inadequate regulatory framework, limited capacity building, weak or outdated policies and regulations governing maritime activities, which contributes to illegal practices and undermine sustainability efforts are some of the challenges facing the nation’s $296billion blue economy sector.

He also identified lack of infrastructure, lack of technological adoption, environmental economic disparities, and social issues as other challenges that affect the implementation of effective policies and hampers long-term planning for sustainable Blue Economy development.

Udoh stated this in Lagos on Friday at the second edition of the African Maritime Art Exhibition (AMAE) with the theme:”The Convergence -Maritime meets ICT”.

He maintained that with a total of 853km of the estimated 47,000 kilometers of coastline in Africa, 200 nautical miles of exclusive economic zone in the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is blessed with enormous marine resources that can easily be harnessed for economic growth and development.

Citing figures from the World Bank, Udoh noted that the global blue economy sector is worth an estimated $1.5 trillion annually, and is expected to double to $3 trillion yearly by 2030 and support the lives of more than three-four billion people.

The digital development expert pointed out that for Nigeria to benefit from this huge economy, which is the 7th largest economy in the world, it needs strategic investment in technology to achieve a more efficient and balanced blue economy.

Speaking on the topic: ‘ICT Disruptions for the Sustainability of the Blue Economy’ Udoh noted that the global Blue Economy sector is undergoing a transformative phase with the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

According to him, “This disruptive force is reshaping traditional practices, enhancing sustainability, and driving innovation across various aspects of the Blue Economy.”

He listed key areas for ICT disruption in Nigeria’s Blue Economy to include real-time monitoring and surveillance and security, comprising technology-driven satellite imaging, IoT sensors and Artificial Intelligence AI.

“ICT Disruption enhances real-time monitoring of marine activities which allows for effective surveillance and enforcement against illegal fishing, piracy, and environmental violations.

“The impact of this enhances maritime security, reduces illegal, unreported, and unregulated IUU fishing, and contributes to the sustainable management of marine resources.

“Climate resilience and predictive analytics technology, including climate modelling, big data analytics.

“ICT tools facilitate climate resilience by providing predictive analytics for understanding and adapting to the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.

“The impact enables proactive decision-making, aiding in the development of strategies to mitigate climate-related risks. Documentation, storage and cybersecurity, which comprise Cloud Computing, is Cloud-based storage solutions that provide scalable, cost-effective, and secure options for storing vast amounts of data. Big Data Analytics ICT enables the processing and analysis of large datasets, extracting valuable insights from diverse sources of information. Decentralised storage, which comprises blockchain technology, which offers decentralised and secure storage solutions, enhancing data integrity and reducing the risk of data theft,” he said.

Going forward, he insisted that Nigeria’s Blue Economy sector should envision a harmonious integration of ICT, fostering innovation, sustainability, and resilience.

“As Nigeria navigates the future of its maritime industry, strategic investments in technology will undoubtedly contribute to a more efficient, secure, and ecologically balanced Blue Economy,” Udoh said.

In his keynote address, Special Guest at the event and Director General, National Broadcasting Commission NBC, Charles Ebuebu, commended organisers of the event for not only showcasing the rich tapestry of marine and blue economy but also emphasizing the intersection of maritime and the ICT.

This, according to him, further reflects the evolving dynamics of these crucial sectors and promises insightful discussions on their sustainability.

“The initiative taken by Maritime TV Africa through AMAE to use art as a medium to convey the agenda, policies, and causes of the Blue Economy is commendable. Art, with its creative visuals, has the power to evoke emotions and raise awareness, making it an effective tool for shaping societal consciousness.

“The significance of the Blue Economy cannot be emphasized enough. With an estimated worth of $296 billion in Nigeria alone, it stands as a cornerstone of economic potential, offering a multitude of opportunities for diverse careers. The Blue Economy is not merely a sector; it is a catalyst for growth, a source of livelihood, and a nexus of innovation. As we explore the vivid narratives portrayed in the artworks showcased at AMAE, let us delve into the immense impact the Blue Economy holds for our nation and the African continent at large.

“Africa’s economic landscape is intricately interwoven with the maritime sector, supporting nearly 50 million jobs. This symbiotic relationship underscores the pivotal role that maritime activities play in our continent’s development. It is a dynamic ecosystem that not only fosters economic prosperity but also cultivates cultural and social ties. The artworks displayed at AMAE serve as a testament to the deep-rooted connection between our people and the vast expanse of the Blue Economy, portraying its multifaceted influence on our lives.

“The ability of the broadcast sector to effectively communicate the stories of the maritime industry and the Blue Economy is unparalleled. Through engaging narratives, documentaries, and visual storytelling, we can illuminate the vast potential and challenges faced by the maritime sector. By leveraging the broadcast platform, we can bridge the gap between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and the general public, fostering a shared understanding of the Blue Economy’s significance,” the NBC-boss said.

Earlier, founder, African Maritime Art Exhibition (AMAE), Ezinne Azunna, explained that the objective of AMAE is to utilize photography, textile art, paint, sculpture and other motifs/ subjects to tell stories and support causes around the Blue Economy.

“This is a meeting point for the town and gown. AMAE 2023 comes with a new twist- the Conference – to facilitate quality exchange in the industry. Themed “The Convergence… Maritime Meets ICT”, this forum underscores the invaluable need for up-to-date technologies across the value chain. Our 2023 audience is largely drawn from the Blue Economy, Art and the ICT worlds. The conference will help participants/stakeholders find Information Communication Technology solutions,” she said.

The highpoint of the event was the art exhibition opening by the Blue Economy Minister’s representative Prof. Busayo Fakinlede accompanied by maritime bigwigs; including the President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Eunice Ezeoke; Vice President, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS), Ify Akerele; first Nigerian female Bonded Terminal Operator, Chief Executive, AML Bonded Terminal, Mrs. Affi Ibanga; and Commercial Manager, AP Moller Terminals, Temilade Ogunniyi among others.

Photo caption:

L-R: Engineering Manager, Radial Circle, Engr. Ajibade Hamzat, President, Female Seafarers Association of Nigeria, Koni Duniya, Director General, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, Commercial Manager, AP Moller Apapa Terminals, Temilade Ogunniyi, Digital Adviser to the UK Government, Idongesit Udoh and Director, Geology, Geo-physics, Dr. Adesina Adegbie at the 2023 edition of the African Maritime Art Exhibition AMAE, held in Lagos on Friday.