Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised the relevance of the production, protection and development of Africa’s maritime environment to ensure sustained wealth in the region.
Shettima disclosed this while giving his remarks at the International Maritime Conference (IMC) in Lagos, where he represented President Bola Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour.
The Vice President while commending the Nigerian Navy on its 68th anniversary noted that behind every vibrant nation, is a flourishing Blue Economy which is utmostly, unattainable without a proactive Navy Force.
The Blue Economy is estimated to be worth more than $1.5trn per year globally, and it is set to double by 2030 to $3trn.
In Nigeria, the exploration of the Blue Economy potential in 2024 involves harnessing wind, and renewable energy and the exploration of untapped potential estimated at $296bn, which is expected to result in job creation, improve food security and overall economic growth.
The Conference with the theme: ‘Promoting The Blue Economy in Africa Through International Cooperation On Maritime Security’, further provides the ideal platform for stakeholders to take collaborative action against maritime crimes in Africa, Shettima noted.
He also said that the theme encapsulates the major objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14, which demands the building of Africa’s integrated Maritime Strategy 2050 and a key target of Africa’s Agenda 2063.
Shettima further noted, “The wealth of Africa can not be realised unless we prioritise the production, protection and development of our maritime environment.
“As we celebrate the 68th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, I am convinced that your record of excellence is driven by your sincerity and commitment to protecting lives and property across the nation, particularly in the maritime environment.
“Whether through adopting optimal and proactive policies and strategies ahead of the dynamics of maritime challenges or acquiring the technology necessary to promote the culture and competence of its capabilities, the Nigerian Navy has created a sense of balance and stability in our nation.
“The evolution of the Nigerian Navy in addressing threats within the maritime domains and its partnership with the local and international maritime agencies underscores the essence of this gathering; promoting the blue economy in Africa through international cooperation on maritime security.
Also Speaking, the Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle believed that the engagements during the conference would produce innovative ways and improve the Nigerian Navy’s professionalism and efficiency.
Matawalle noted that the outcome of the deliberation would ‘’translate into a secured maritime environment in the Gulf and Guinea, Nigeria and all legitimate businesses for economic growth, prosperity and National Development.”
On his part, the deputy governor of Lagos State, Femi Hamzat congratulated the Nigerian Navy while acknowledging the value of their duty to humanity and the nation’s maritime environment.
He said, “Let us also remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their legacy must inspire us to strive for excellence and uphold the values that they fought to protect.
“Lagos, as a bustling city, thrives on the efficiency and safety of maritime activities. Our ports are the lifeline of not just our state but the entire country, facilitating trade and contributing significantly to our GDP.
“Therefore it is imperative that as a state we must support initiatives aimed at supporting maritime security and fostering international partnership towards harnessing the potential in our Blue Economy.”
He called on the Nigerian Navy to adopt a holistic approach that encompasses economic growth, environment stewardship and security.
The deputy governor also asked that the Navy utilise its collaboration with sister countries to harness the full potential of the region’s maritime sector, driving innovation and ensuring future prosperity.
The International Maritime Conference in Lagos is in commemoration of the Nigerian Navy’s 68th Anniversary, hosting delegations from about 21 African countries, 17 non-African countries and 13 International regional organisations.
Earlier, the Vice president officially flagged off the Regional Maritime Sea Exercise featuring a total of 15 Vessels including 12 Nigerian Navy vessels alongside Cameroon, Brazil and China vessels.
Shettima flagged off the exercise at the Navy Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos State which is a part of the week-long events to commemorate the 68th anniversary.
The 2024 sea exercise with codename: Exercise AABO OKUN featured the commissioning of two helicopters: NN 412 and NN 414 (Augusta Westland 109 SP) and three vessels: NNS CHALAWA, NNS ZUR and NNS OCHUZO, also participated in the exercise.
During his remarks, the Chief of Navy Staff (CNS) Emmanuel Ogalla noted that the synergy from International Cooperation has been pivotal in reducing Maritime Crime from the environment up to the Gulf of Guinea.