At a high-level conference hosted by the University of Nigeria, experts and policymakers emphasized that Africa must move from policy discussion to tangible action to harness a global blue economy valued at over $1.5 trillion.
ENUGU – Experts, academics, and government officials gathered at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC) for the 3rd International Conference on Global Maritime Regulations, issued a collective call for the urgent and effective implementation of maritime frameworks to catalyze Africa’s blue economy.
The conference, organized by the Institute of Maritime Studies, centered on the theme “Global Maritime Regulations to Tangible Actions.” Participants argued that while Africa possesses extensive coastlines and strategic shipping routes, the continent’s maritime potential remains largely untapped due to a significant gap between policy formulation and local enforcement.
Professor Florence Orabueze, Director of the Institute, noted that Africa is at a pivotal stage of development with expanding port infrastructure and strategic importance to global trade. However, she observed that well-articulated policies are frequently undermined by poor execution. “The strength of policy is too often weakened by ineffective implementation,” Orabueze stated, stressing that moving beyond discussions toward measurable and impactful outcomes is now imperative.
Professor Lucky Worika of Rivers State University echoed these sentiments, highlighting that global conventions regarding safety and environmental protection remain ineffective without robust local enforcement. He identified several systemic hurdles, including: Fragmented regulatory systems, Institutional capacity constraints, Weak inter-agency coordination, Infrastructural deficiencies.
The Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Mark Okoye, represented by Mr. Clifford Ogbede, underscored the immense economic stakes involved. He pointed out that approximately 90 per cent of global trade is conducted by sea. Furthermore, the global blue economy is estimated to provide over $1.5 trillion in annual opportunities.
Despite Nigeria’s significant role in the sector, Okoye noted that the country continues to struggle with inefficiencies in logistics and port operations. He urged the nation to aggressively invest in inland waterways, aquaculture, and related maritime sectors to capture a larger share of global wealth.
To bridge these gaps, stakeholders suggested a multi-faceted approach involving integrated governance systems, increased investment in technology, and enhanced regional cooperation. Chief Ben Etiaba, former Chairman of the Enugu Sports Club, emphasized the need for stronger institutions and a renewed focus on research and human capital development.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Professor Simeon Ortuanya, speaking through Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Josephat Onwumere, commended the Institute for creating a platform that aligns academic research with industry needs. He concluded that such collaborations are essential for shaping the policy dialogues required to foster a sustainable and profitable maritime future for the continent.
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