Follow Us on Google
By Philip Nwosu
The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has said that the ideas and decisions emerging from its engagement at its executive programmes have the potential to shape Nigeria’s maritime future for generations to come.
The Director General of the Institute, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (retd) who gave the revelation said Nigeria stands at a critical juncture within the globe, adding that with an extensive coastline of over 420 nautical miles, vast inland waterways, and a strategic position in the Gulf of Guinea, the country is positioned to harness the immense opportunities of the blue economy.
He spoke at the opening of the IMION executive course on “Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy,” explaining that from maritime trade and fisheries to offshore energy, tourism, and marine biotechnology, the ocean economy offers a viable pathway to inclusive growth, job creation and environmental sustainability.
The institute urged participants to use the platform to share insights, challenge existing assumptions and build enduring collaborations capable of shaping Nigeria’s maritime future for generations.
The Director General said that realising the potential of the blue economy requires more than ambition, adding that it demands coordination, innovation and strong governance. It calls for synergy among policymakers, security institutions, academia, civil society and industry leaders to design and implement policies that are economically viable, environmentally responsible, socially equitable and sustainably scalable.
Expantiating on the IMION programme, Admiral Udofia said: “The executive programme is designed as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and strategic alignment. Over the course of our engagements, we will explore key issues shaping Nigeria’s blue economy, including policy frameworks, institutional collaboration, maritime security, environmental protection and investment opportunities.”
He said that the key learning objectives of this Executive Programme include:
Understanding the foundational principles and global frameworks of the Blue Economy; analysing Nigeria’s blue economy policy framework and its alignment with national development goals; identifying key sectors and their potential contributions to Gross DomesticProduct and employment; evaluating challenges, risks and opportunities within Nigeria’s coastal and marine economy and
Other News
proposing strategic, data-driven recommendations to support the sustainable implementation of the Blue Economy in Nigeria.
The DG emphasised that the outcome of the programme could significantly influence policy direction and sustainable development within the maritime sector, noting that collective decisions reached would play a critical role in advancing Nigeria’s economic prospects.
Earlier in his address, Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who unveiled the maiden edition of the newsletter of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria, described it as a significant milestone in the institute’s growth and visibility.
Admiral Abbas said the introduction of the publication underscores IMION’s commitment to strengthening communication, promoting intellectual engagement and documenting its progress.
He noted that the newsletter would serve as a structured platform for sharing ideas, showcasing achievements and articulating the institute’s vision to both its members and the wider maritime community.
According to him, such a publication is not only a record of progress but also a tool for fostering unity, transparency and active participation among maritime stakeholders.
The naval chief commended the Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral TC Udofia, and the editorial team for their foresight and dedication in bringing the initiative to fruition.
He expressed optimism that the newsletter would go beyond information dissemination to inspire innovation, collaboration and sustained excellence within the maritime sector.
The unveiling ceremony marked the official launch of the institute’s maiden publication, with the naval chief congratulating the IMION community and urging them to sustain the quality and impact of the initiative in the years ahead.
