AMJON Conference Opens With Calls to Harness Nigeria’s Blue Economy.

AMJON Conference Opens With Calls to Harness Nigeria’s Blue Economy.

Lucky Akra

The Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) on Thursday 13th of November, 2025 opened its annual conference with a strong call for Nigeria to fully harness the vast opportunities within its blue economy in order to diversify revenue, boost export trade and strengthen multimodal cargo transport.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, AMJON Acting President, Vera Osokpo, said Nigeria’s extensive coastline, abundant marine resources and strategic geographic position provide a natural foundation for the country to become a major maritime hub. Despite these advantages, she noted, the nation’s economy remains overly dependent on oil.

Osokpo stressed that the blue economy covering sectors such as fishing, shipping, tourism, offshore oil and gas, renewable energy, aquaculture and marine biotechnology holds the potential to transform the nation’s economic landscape. “Our blue economy has the potential to be a game-changer for Nigeria,” she said.

She highlighted global projections that value the blue economy at $2.5 trillion by 2030, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind as other nations aggressively tap into marine-based economic opportunities.

The conference brought together top stakeholders in the maritime sector, including the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Miranda; and the Head of Research at Sea Empowerment Research Centre, Chief Dr. Eugene Nweke, among other dignitaries. AMJON also presented awards to individuals recognised for their contributions to the industry.

Osokpo reaffirmed the commitment of maritime journalists to informing the public, spotlighting opportunities and challenges within the sector, and holding policymakers accountable for progress.

She described the blue economy not merely as a sector but as “a movement” that requires collaboration, innovation and long-term commitment. With the right policies, investments and partnerships, she expressed confidence that Nigeria can unlock its full maritime potential and establish itself as a significant global player.

The conference continues with panel discussions and presentations focused on strengthening Nigeria’s maritime value chain and export competitiveness.