Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has underscored the importance of innovation-led strategies, purposeful collaboration, and effective policy implementation in harnessing Nigeria’s blue economy for sustainable development.
Speaking at a high-level engagement in Port Harcourt on Saturday, July 12, 2025, Vice Admiral Ibas stressed that Nigeria—particularly coastal states like Rivers—possesses immense untapped opportunities in the maritime, aquaculture, tourism, and energy sectors of the blue economy. He maintained that unlocking this potential requires forward-thinking leadership, private sector involvement, and a robust institutional framework.
“The blue economy is a strategic frontier that can transform our economy, generate employment, and ensure food security if well harnessed,” he noted. “We must adopt innovation-driven approaches, foster strategic partnerships both locally and internationally, and ensure that policy implementation is not only firm but consistent.”
The retired naval chief, who currently oversees the administration of Rivers State under the federal government’s transitional arrangement, also highlighted the role of security in enabling maritime prosperity. He stressed that improved surveillance and regulatory enforcement would safeguard investments and discourage illegal exploitation of marine resources.
Vice Admiral Ibas called on stakeholders—government agencies, academic institutions, private sector investors, and coastal communities—to align efforts and explore sustainable solutions that prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth.
His remarks come at a time when the federal government is intensifying efforts to diversify the economy through the development of the blue economy, with several coastal states being urged to play more active roles in its realisation.