The Nigerian Navy emphasized on Monday that addressing maritime security issues is vital for Nigeria to fully harness the potential of its Blue Economy. Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, made this assertion during the inaugural International Maritime Institute of Nigeria workshop.
Speaking through Rear Admiral Habila Zakaria, Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Doctrine and Assessment Command, Admiral Ogalla underscored that Nigeria’s Blue Economy goals depend heavily on sustained maritime security.
“Crimes such as piracy, illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing, crude oil theft, and other transnational crimes threaten the prosperity of the maritime sector,” Ogalla stated. He highlighted that ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s maritime domain is crucial not only for the success of the Blue Economy but also for the overall well-being of Nigerians.
The Navy Chief stressed that this security can be achieved through collaboration, shared knowledge, and the integration of modern technologies to effectively combat maritime crimes while promoting sustainable economic activities.
Ogalla further noted that Nigeria’s maritime environment is rich in resources, including oil, gas, and fisheries, presenting significant opportunities for economic prosperity. He pointed out that the sustainable use of these resources could improve livelihoods and drive national economic growth, offering immense potential for the Blue Economy.
“This will enable Nigeria to diversify its economy, boost foreign exchange earnings, and create jobs for millions of Nigerians,” Ogalla added.
The workshop, he said, provides a platform for maritime experts, government officials, and other stakeholders to brainstorm innovative solutions to Nigeria’s maritime challenges, enhancing the nation’s Blue Economy.
“I encourage you all to think critically and propose strategies that will secure our maritime domain and unlock the boundless opportunities of Nigeria’s Blue Economy,” the CNS urged.
Admiral Ogalla also congratulated Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (retd), Director-General of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria, and his team, along with their partner Sequential Development Solutions, for organizing the workshop.
The workshop, as reported by *Daily Sun*, will cover key areas such as maritime and ocean governance, maritime security, law enforcement, hydrography, Blue Economy, and climate change. The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria, inaugurated in June 2024, focuses on maritime research, benchmarking, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders in Nigeria and abroad.
