Former Tunisian PM Urges Nigerian Government to Invest in Blue Economy at Niger Delta Summit

Former Tunisian Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to invest in its local potential to boost the blue economy during the three-day Niger Delta Blue Economy Summit held in Ikot Ekpen. Jomaa shared Tunisia's experience in benefiting from the blue economy and highlighted Nigeria's prerequisites, including a large coastal area and a market for goods.

He stressed the importance of visionary leadership and proper implementation for Nigeria's blue economy to flourish. Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Uko assured progress on the Ibom Deep Seaport project, citing regulatory approvals and construction advancements.

Chief Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abba described the summit as a strategic time for Nigeria's economic diversification efforts. Rear Admiral Sunday Atakpa noted the importance of sustainable development in the Niger Delta region and highlighted the Nigerian Navy's establishment of an International Maritime Institute in June 2024 to drive knowledge-based blue economy initiatives.