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By Saviour Ekpe
Months after the Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR), Akwa Ibom State Branch, began advocating for the establishment of a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in the state, the campaign has received a major boost from the Federal Government, which is now urging all coastal states to institutionalise the blue economy through dedicated ministries and agencies.
The renewed call came during the 2nd Quarter 2026 Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Lagos, where Governor Umo Eno was represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi.
Speaking after the engagement, EMR congratulated Governor Umo Eno for identifying with the Federal Government’s marine and blue economy agenda and urged him to seize the opportunity by establishing a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Akwa Ibom State. The organisation noted that the stakeholders’ engagement recommended that states create dedicated institutions, enact blue economy laws and strengthen governance to unlock the enormous opportunities within the sector.
EMR also commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for creating the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a bold initiative that has now reinforced the organisation’s long-standing advocacy for a similar ministry in Akwa Ibom.
In a statement signed by the State Chairman, Mr. Harrison Ndifreke and the State Secretary, Mabel Ekanem, the association said Akwa Ibom’s vast coastline, strategic maritime assets and the Ibom Deep Seaport project make the creation of a State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy both timely and imperative for economic diversification, job creation and investment attraction.
As a populist leader who listens to genuine and sincere request of his people, it is believed that the governor will set up a committee for the creation of substantive Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and appoints tested, proved and seasoned professional as Commissioner.
