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With Saviour Ekpe, Ph.D
When Pastor Umo Eno presented himself in 2023 to led Akwa Ibom State to the eldorado, critics described it as a regular political statement, saying that he has nothing to offer the people of the state hence, it is a regular jamboree. But when he assumed office, the story changed, new ideas, new projects, new programmes and new activities emerged and today he is advancing and exploring new frontiers in search of new opportunities for the good of the people of the state.
As the government continues to explore new opportunities for economic diversification and wealth creation, it is imperative to draw attention to one of the most promising sectors of the global Blue Economy—Renewable Ocean Energy. The establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy in Akwa Ibom State would provide the institutional framework necessary to harness the enormous opportunities that abound in this emerging sector.
Blessed with an extensive Atlantic coastline, abundant marine resources, and strategic geographical positioning, Akwa Ibom possesses significant potential for the development of renewable ocean energy projects. Around the world, coastal regions are increasingly investing in ocean-based renewable energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, while simultaneously creating jobs, attracting investments, and reducing environmental pollution.
One major component of renewable ocean energy is Offshore Wind Energy. Strong and consistent winds over coastal waters can be harnessed through offshore wind farms to generate electricity on a large scale. Many countries have successfully utilized offshore wind technology to supplement their national power supply. With proper feasibility studies and strategic partnerships, Akwa Ibom could position itself as a pioneer in offshore renewable energy development within Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea region. Such investments would stimulate industrial growth and improve electricity availability for businesses and communities.
Another promising area is Wave Energy. Ocean waves contain vast amounts of kinetic energy that can be converted into electricity through modern technologies. Given the continuous wave activity along the Akwa Ibom coastline, there exists an opportunity for pilot projects that could demonstrate the viability of wave energy generation. These projects could attract international investors, research institutions, and development agencies interested in renewable energy innovation.
Equally important is Tidal Energy, which utilizes the predictable movement of ocean tides to generate power. Unlike some other renewable sources, tidal energy offers a reliable and highly predictable energy output. As global demand for clean energy increases, Akwa Ibom can position itself to benefit from future advancements in tidal energy technologies through strategic planning and policy support under a dedicated Blue Economy Ministry.
The state can also explore Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), a technology that generates electricity by utilizing temperature differences between warm surface seawater and colder deep ocean water. Although still developing globally, OTEC represents a long-term opportunity for coastal states seeking innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Early engagement in this sector would place Akwa Ibom ahead of many regions in Africa.
Furthermore, Floating Solar Installations present another viable opportunity. Solar panels mounted on floating platforms in coastal and inland water bodies can generate significant amounts of electricity while conserving valuable land resources. Such projects could complement existing energy initiatives and contribute to the state’s renewable energy mix.
Beyond electricity generation, renewable ocean energy development would create substantial economic benefits. These include employment opportunities for engineers, technicians, researchers, construction workers, marine specialists, and environmental experts. The sector would also stimulate local manufacturing, logistics, maritime services, training institutions, and technology transfer initiatives.
The establishment of a Ministry of Blue Economy would provide focused leadership, policy direction, investor coordination, research support, and project implementation mechanisms necessary to unlock these opportunities. The ministry could collaborate with federal agencies, international development partners, universities, and private investors to develop a comprehensive renewable ocean energy roadmap for the state.
As Pastor Umo Eno continues to champion economic transformation and inclusive development, the creation of a Ministry of Blue Economy would represent another visionary step toward securing Akwa Ibom’s future prosperity. By embracing renewable ocean energy and other blue economy opportunities, the state can diversify its economy, generate sustainable revenue, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen its position as Nigeria’s leading maritime and coastal development hub.
The time has come for Akwa Ibom State to look beyond traditional sources of revenue and fully embrace the immense possibilities offered by the blue economy. Renewable ocean energy stands as a strategic asset capable of powering industries, driving innovation, and accelerating the state’s journey toward sustainable economic growth.
Dr Saviour Ekpe is a Journalist, public analyst, scholar and the National Secretary, Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR), could be reached through +2348024179119
