Introduction
Global realities and domestic economic conditions have combined to make investment in Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy not just desirable, but imperative. Factors such as climate change, the global shift away from fossil fuels, the increasing globalization of consumer products and services, and revolutions in digital technology and payment systems are redirecting attention toward marine and blue economic opportunities.
Historical Context
Long before oil and gas became the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy, the maritime sector played a vital role in national development. It provided the essential logistics for the movement of heavy cargo and people, facilitated the export of locally produced goods, and served as the entry point for imported products.
Today, with the formal onboarding of the blue economy concept — and the establishment of a Federal Ministry dedicated to it — Nigeria is laying the foundation for a robust, water-driven economic system rooted in the resources of its rivers, creeks, seas, and ports.
Economic Importance of the Blue Economy
The benefits of the maritime and blue economy are vast and multifaceted. Experts across various fields have highlighted how marine-based economies often herald prosperity for nations, cities, and communities. Countries with strong maritime systems are typically more prosperous, and cities that host major maritime activities often thrive economically.
In Nigeria, Lagos and Port Harcourt stand out as clear examples. Their strategic maritime locations made them focal points for economic development, a fact well recognized by the colonial administration which built much of Nigeria’s early economic structure around them.
Mobilizing Public Understanding and Participation
For the blue economy to truly take root and deliver sustainable benefits, its strategic publics must be properly mobilized, informed, and sensitized. People need to understand what the blue economy entails, the opportunities it presents, and the roles they can play in nurturing and benefiting from it. As the saying goes, “You may lead a horse to the river, but you cannot make it drink.” Awareness and engagement are key.
This is precisely where the media and advocacy come in.
The Role of the Media
The media — encompassing both traditional (radio, television, newspapers, and magazines) and new media (digital and social platforms) — play a central role in information dissemination, education, and public enlightenment. Modern businesses and government initiatives cannot afford to ignore the media’s capacity to shape perception and drive social change.
The broader definition of media also includes advertising, public relations, and entertainment — all of which amplify the traditional functions of information, education, entertainment, and surveillance. The Nigerian Constitution itself underscores the importance of the media, granting it a unique role under Section 22, which empowers it to hold government accountable. No other sector enjoys this constitutional recognition.
The Role of Advocacy
Closely aligned with the media is advocacy, which involves taking the message of the maritime and blue economy directly to the people in a language and manner they understand. While media outlets may not have the time or capacity to engage every community, advocacy groups — including civil society organizations, community-based associations, professional bodies, trade unions, and government agencies responsible for public orientation — can complement media efforts through direct outreach.
Sustained Engagement and Collaboration
Engaging the media and advocacy groups must not be a one-off exercise. For effective results, relationships must be deliberate, sustained, and mutually beneficial. Continuous media interactions, advertising, public relations campaigns, community sensitization programs, and stakeholder engagements should form part of a structured communication strategy.
Such ongoing collaboration ensures that the media and advocacy groups feel genuinely involved and committed to promoting the blue economy agenda.
Institutional Support and Capacity Building
To sustain this engagement, it is essential to establish dedicated offices or communication units within the maritime and blue economy framework. These units should be responsible for maintaining active communication with media organizations and advocacy groups, providing timely, accurate, and verifiable information about developments within the sector.
Furthermore, laws, regulations, and policy documents governing the blue economy should be made easily accessible to media practitioners and advocacy groups. Empowered with the right information, they can report and educate with greater authority and accuracy.
Conclusion
The blue economy represents a new frontier for Nigeria’s development, one capable of generating jobs, boosting trade, and driving sustainable prosperity. However, for it to thrive, there must be a conscious and strategic partnership between policymakers, media professionals, and advocacy groups.
When properly informed, engaged, and supported, the media can serve as a powerful catalyst — turning public understanding into collective action and ensuring that Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy truly becomes a pillar of national growth….Asu Beks is arguably the Doyen of Maritime Journalism in Nigeria ,Convener of the Maritime Elders Forum and CEO Maritime Media Ltd , Publishers of Shipping World Magazine.