IMION Executive Course on Blue Economy Sustainability Ends with Call for National Collaboration and Action

IMION Executive Course on Blue Economy Sustainability Ends with Call for National Collaboration and Action

The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has concluded its two-day Executive Course on Sustainability for the Blue Economy, with a strong appeal for inter-agency collaboration and sustainable practices across Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Held from May 22 to 23, 2025, the course brought together high-level participants from the military, government, private sector, and regulatory agencies. Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd.), Director General of IMION, delivered the closing remarks, hailing the course as a vital step toward coordinated action in marine governance.

“We began with shared expectations and a collective vision. Today, we depart enriched, equipped, and united,” said Rear Admiral Udofia. He commended the active engagement of attendees, who represented the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Customs Service, private firms like Al Range Limited, and various government institutions.

“The diversity of participation highlights the importance of unified efforts in unlocking Nigeria’s vast maritime potential,” he added.

Key topics addressed during the course included climate resilience, marine resource governance, innovative financing mechanisms, and stakeholder inclusivity. Udofia urged participants to become “ambassadors of sustainability,” encouraging them to implement the insights gained through reforms and initiatives that advance Nigeria’s blue economy.

Special recognition was given to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for his administration’s continued support for maritime education and research. Rear Admiral Udofia also acknowledged the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (OFR), and the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, whose strategic backing has helped elevate IMION’s status as a national hub for maritime excellence.

Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro, managing partner of Paul Usoro & Co and a key course consultant, emphasized the need to integrate sustainability principles into all facets of blue economy development. She advocated for a “whole-of-government” approach, stressing that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy must work closely with other ministries such as Environment, Tourism, Oil and Gas, Agriculture, and Biotechnology to achieve tangible progress.

“Sustainability in the blue economy isn't just about protecting ecosystems; it’s about inclusive governance where host communities are empowered as stakeholders,” Mrs. Usoro noted.

The course featured expert facilitators, strategic partners, and media representatives who were lauded for amplifying the message of sustainable maritime development.

Rear Admiral Udofia closed the event with a heartfelt farewell, urging attendees to remain committed to sustainable ocean governance and to turn their shared vision into long-term action.

“Let us be the generation that transformed Nigeria’s maritime narrative—together,” he concluded.