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With Saviour Ekpe, Ph.D
The present administration led by Pastor Umo Eno has continuously shown a strong determination to improve the living standards of the people through people=oriented programmes and activities that have direct bearing on the lives of the people and he deserves accolades and commendation. However, as the state charts a course towards sustainable economic growth and diversification, there is a compelling need for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy to harness the enormous aquatic and marine resources with which nature has blessed Akwa Ibom State.
In view of the vast coastal and maritime resources coupled with the desire and plans by the present administration to diversify her internally generated revenue, establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy that will give credence and draft the institutional framework that are needed to tap the opportunities available within the maritime sector and place Akwa Ibom as a leading maritime hub in the Niger Delta, Nigeria and the African continent. What readily comes to mind in achieving this is Shipbuilding and Ship Repairs.
Over 129 kilometres of coastline, long waterways, access to the Atlantic Ocean and proximity to major oil and gas activities are some of the benefits bestowed to the state by nature and shipbuilding and ship repair facilities thrive greatly given these enormous and available natural endowments.
Currently, thousands of vessels, boats, barges, offshore support vessels, fishing trawlers and marine equipment operating within Nigeria depend largely on facilities located outside the State and in many cases outside the country, for construction, maintenance and repairs. This situation results in huge capital flight and loss of employment opportunities that could otherwise benefit Akwa Ibom people. Creating a dedicated ministry of Blue Economy would be able to formulate policies and attract investors for the establishment of modern shipyards, dry docks and marine engineering centres across strategic coastal communities in the State.
Construction of Vessels
The construction of vessels is a multi-billion-naira industry with the ability of transmuting local economies in the state with capacity of becoming a centre for the construction of fishing boats, passenger ferries, cargo barges, offshore support vessels, patrol boats and other marine artistries needed for commercial and security procedures. The deliberate launching of shipbuilding facilities would stimulate local manufacturing, encourage technology transfer and create opportunities for engineers, welders, fabricators, naval architects, electricians, surveyors and numerous other technical and artistic personnels. Apart from stimulating local economy and meeting internal demands, Akwa Ibom made vessels could be sold to neighbouring coastal states as well as exporting to other African countries, thereby increasing the internally generated revenue for the State and empower our local manufacturers.
Dry Docks and Maintenance Facilities
Just like the aviation sector, maritime sector hinge on regular maintenance and repairs to ensure vessel safety and operational proficiency. The establishment of modern dry docks and maintenance facilities within the state would create a flourishing marine services sector with the ability of attracting vessel operators from across Nigeria and beyond. Currently, vessel owners spent substantial amount transporting vessels to distant locations for repairs and maintenance. To establish a world-class dry dock facilities within the State would reduce operational costs for maritime operators while generating income, employment and technical skills for local communities. This type of facilities would aid the activities of oil and gas companies operating offshore, thereby strengthening the State’s position within Nigeria’s maritime value chain.
Marine Engineering Services
This critical sector is a highly specialized area with huge financial value, a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy could fast tract partnerships between government, private investors, educational institutions, and international maritime organizations to establish marine engineering training centres, which would in turn be a huge plus for the state. These centres would reproduce trained personnel with the ability of designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing marine vessels and equipment. This will create human capital growth hence, reduce dependence on foreign expertise and create career opportunities for thousands of Akwa Ibom youths and by extension cut capital flight greatly. It would also encourage innovation, research, and technological advancement within the State.
Boat and Barge Manufacturing
Since the state is naturally blessed with numerous rivers, creeks, and coastal settlements, it therefore requires a steady supply of boats and barges for transportation, fishing, tourism, commerce, and industrial operations within and outside the shores of the state. When indigenous manufacturers are empowered to build these vessels, it would strengthen local participation in the maritime sector while reducing dependence on imported finished goods. The development of this area would arouse auxiliary businesses such as steel production, woodworking, engine servicing, electronics, painting, logistics, and marine equipment supply, thereby creating a robust industrial ecosystem for the state economic growth.
A Call for Strategic Action
The creation of a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy in Akwa Ibom State is no longer merely an option; it is an economic necessity and obligatory duty. Shipbuilding and ship repair alone have the capacity to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attract local and foreign investment, boost internally generated revenue, develop technical manpower and accelerate industrialization, which may not be possible in other sectors of the economy. As Governor Umo Eno continues to pursue his vision of economic prosperity and inclusive development under the ARISE Agenda, the creation of a Ministry of Blue Economy would serve as a strategic road map for unlocking the vast maritime wealth of the State for the benefit of the people of the state and beyond. The future of Akwa Ibom lies not only on land but also in its rivers, creeks, coastline, and the abundant opportunities embedded in the Blue Economy. By taking deliberate steps today, the State can position itself as Nigeria’s foremost maritime industrial hub and secure lasting prosperity for generations to come.
Dr Saviour Ekpe is a journalist, public analyst and scholar
