Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the maximisation of Africa’s blue economy projected to hit $405 billion by 2030.
Shettima made the call during the 2024 International Maritime Conference, Regional Maritime Exercise and Maritime Exhibition, among other activities held at Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference was titled: “Secured Maritime Environment: A Panacea for Unlocking Africa’s Blue Economy Potentials”.
The vice president represented President Bola Tinubu at the conference which was organised in celebration of the 68th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.
According to Shettima, the blue economy is estimated to be worth more than $1.5 trillion per year globally and is projected to increase to $15.5 trillion by 2050.
“The Africa blue economy strategy estimates that the blue economy generates nearly 300 billion dollars for the continent, thereby creating 49 million jobs in the process
“Therefore, we all have a role to play to maximise the potential of this industry,” he said.
Shettima said that the attainment of a vibrant nation rested on a flourishing blue economy which also relied on the dedication of a progressive Naval force to create the enabling maritime environment.
“The evolution of the Nigerian Navy in addressing threats within the maritime domains and its partnership with other local and international maritime emergencies underscores the essence of this gathering.
“The Nigerian Navy has been a critical pillar in promoting the blue economy in Africa through international cooperation and maritime sphere,” the vice president said.
Shettima said that the choice of the topic provided the ideal platform for stakeholders to achieve the mechanism for collaborative action against maritime crimes in Africa.
“The topic also encapsulates the major objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 14, the beginning of Africa’s integrated Maritime strategy 2050 and a key target of Africa’s agenda 2063.
“The wealth of Africa can never be realised unless we prioritise the protection and development of our maritime environment,” the vice president said.
