By Joshua Olomu

Tourism stakeholders have called for multi-sectoral collaborative efforts among different actors in the blue economy sector to develop Nigeria’s maritime tourism.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the stakeholders made the call at a one-day seminar on “Development of National Blue Economy and Coastal Bio-iversity in Tourism” on Wednesday in Abuja.

The event, which held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, was organised by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE) in collaboration with Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN).

The event brought together experts, policymakers, industry leaders and community stakeholders to explore the significant role that blue economy and coastal biodiversity play in sustainable tourism development.

According to them, there is need for stakeholders in the marine ecosystem to work together to harness economic opportunities the coastal regions offer across Nigeria.

They said that maritime tourism encompasses a variety of sea-based recreational activities and experiences, including cruising, boating, yachting, and nautical sports, along with the supporting infrastructure and services.

The stakeholders called for multi-sectoral collaboration involving key players in both the public and private sectors to ensure that the industry brings economic benefits to coastal communities and contribute to national income.

Mr Abiodun Odusanwo, President ITPN, said as Nigerian coastal regions continue to draw millions of visitors annually, it is imperative for stakeholders to partner to balance economic growth with the preservation of precious marine ecosystems.

He, however, identified several factors that impede the development of blue economy in Nigeria, including inconsistent government policies, insufficient scientific data, unrestricted access to resources, climate change effects, and issues of over-exploitation.

According to Odusanwo, government need to invest in critical infrastructure such as modern ports, coastal roads, and waste management systems, among others.

“Nigeria, with its long coastline stretching over 850 kilometres along the Atlantic Ocean and abundant marine resources, has significant potential for developing a thriving blue economy.

“As a way forward, government is vital in promoting blue economy by creating a supportive policy and legal framework, developing necessary infrastructure and ensuring safety.

“This legal structure includes initiatives aimed at fostering balanced development in economic, environmental, and social aspects,” he said.

He stressed the need for the private sector and local communities to play critical roles in driving growth of the blue economy.

“The private sector undeniably plays a crucial role as the driving force behind the growth of blue economy, contributing essential investment, innovation, and operational know-how.

“They channel funds into vital infrastructure such as hotels, resorts, marinas, and recreational amenities.

“Local communities equally play a vital role as stewards of Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources; they ensure that tourism development is not only inclusive and sustainable but also respectful of local cultures,” he said.

Mr Abari Ahmed, Assistant Director, Marine Environment Management, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), said there was need for community engagement in developing the nation’s maritime tourism.

“The local communities are crucial stakeholders that must be carried along, particularly youth will play key role because there will be jobs for them.

“We must also consider partnership across different agencies in the blue economy ecosystem, including non-governmental organisations,” he said.

Dr Abisoye Fagade, Director General, National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), lauded the organisers of the event aimed at discussing how Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources can be harnessed for national income.

Fagade, who was represented by Dr Edwin Enenta, Director of Tourism Studies at the institute, said tourism was a multi-stakeholders venture, and would thrive if industry players in both public and private sectors were engaged.

Earlier in her opening remarks, Mrs Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director Overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, FMACTCE, said the event was geared towards unlocking the immense potentials of Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources.

The Director, who was represented by Mr Tony Ukpoju, Assistant Director Tourism, said that Nigeria was endowed with extensive coastline and vibrant coastal communities.

She added that it was imperative to strategically position tourism as a key driver in the Blue Economy framework of the nation.

“Our coastal biodiversity is not only a heritage that needs to be treasured, but also a catalyst for cultural expression, eco-tourism, and heritage preservation.

“This seminar presents a time, platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and policy alignment among public and private sectors, actors, researchers, and local communities.

“It is only through multi-sectoral collaborations that we can effectively develop a resilient and sustainable tourism sector that respects our marine ecosystems and uplifts the livelihoods of coastal populations,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh