By Olatunde Ajayi
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on the government to develop Nigeria’s blue economy, to effectively unlock its full potential.
The President and Chairman‑in‑Council of the association, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, made the call on Monday at a news conference heralding 2025 NSE International Conference scheduled for Dec. 1 to Dec. 5 in Ibadan.
According to Oguntala, the theme of the conference, “Engineering Innovation for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria”, is very apt, saying the blue economy offers a critical pathway for Nigeria to diversify its economy beyond oil.
She added that the theme aligns with global efforts toward sustainable development, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources), positioning Nigeria as a responsible global actor.
Oguntala noted that developing the blue economy would create jobs and ensure long-term environmental sustainability, all of which rely heavily on engineering expertise and technological solutions.
She commended the government for demonstrating a strong commitment to the sector by creating the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in August 2023.
This, she said, highlights a national aspiration to harness marine resources responsibly, making it a timely and forward-thinking topic for the engineering community.
“With a coastline of 853 km and vast marine resources, Nigeria has immense potential to grow non-oil sectors like fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism, marine biotechnology, and renewable ocean energy.
“Engineers are central to building the infrastructure and developing the technologies required to unlock this potential and reduce reliance on a volatile oil industry.
“Developing the blue economy will create millions of jobs in various sectors, from technical roles in shipbuilding and logistics, to research in marine biotechnology.
“Focusing on this theme encourages the development of a local, skilled workforce and promotes investment in research and education within Nigeria, “she said.
Oguntala, however, noted that Nigeria’s maritime sector faces significant challenges, including inadequate port infrastructure, marine pollution—such as oil spills and plastic waste—illegal maritime activities, and a lack of skilled manpower.
According to her, the conference theme provides a clear mandate for Nigerian engineers to apply their expertise to solve real-world national problems, ensuring a prosperous, secure, and environmentally sound future for Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources.
“Engineers are needed to design, construct, and maintain modern, efficient port facilities and coastal defences to boost trade and mitigate coastal erosion.
“Engineering solutions, such as advanced surveillance systems and patrol boats, are crucial for enhancing maritime security, which is indispensable for attracting investment and ensuring safe trade routes,” she said.
She said that the keynote speech of the conference would be delivered by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Isiaka Oyetola, while President Tinubu is expected to be a distinguished guest of honour at the conference.
The NSE president noted that the event would also feature conferment of fellowship awards to 481 distinguished engineers for their contributions to the engineering profession and the nation at large.
“Our Information Technology (IT) Centre reports that over 6,500 engineers have already registered online.
“I am truly elated by the level of commitment we have received from the highest level of key stakeholders who have pledged their attendance at this auspicious event,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yetunde Fatungase
