Stakeholders in Nigeria’s blue economy sector have linked seaport development to increased employment opportunities and enhanced economic growth.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, by Gadfly Consulting Limited, the stakeholders commended the federal government for approving the establishment of five additional deep-sea ports across the country.

The firm’s senior consultant, Philemon Adjekuko, described the development as long overdue.

“The continued congestion of ports in Lagos, while other port facilities, particularly in the Niger Delta, remain abandoned, is both inexplicable and embarrassing,” he said.

“We are pleased that with these approvals, the logistics nightmare and avoidable delays may soon become a thing of the past.”

“However, we must ensure that we pursue economically viable ports so they can remain sustainable.”

Lead Consultant at Gadfly Consulting, Dr. Uche Igwe, said the blue economy sector has the potential to generate at least 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.

“However, we must be careful and deliberate in preparing our young people for the opportunities ahead,” he said.

“This is the time to anticipate the skills and competencies required and begin aligning accordingly.”

“Momentum is building, and pathways are becoming clearer.”

Igwe said efforts were underway to develop workforce strategies aimed at aligning education systems with opportunities in the blue economy sector.

He added that collaboration with government agencies, industry operators and educational institutions would be necessary to meet future demands.

The stakeholders also announced plans for a meeting on financing investment in Africa’s blue economy.

The session is scheduled to hold in Mombasa on June 17 on the sidelines of the Our Ocean Conference.

According to the organisers, the meeting will focus on bankable projects, including deep seaport development plans and financing options.

Representatives of government agencies, the Commonwealth Secretariat, Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance, FSD Africa, Blue Bond Accelerator and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation are expected to attend the meeting.