Abuja: Tourism stakeholders have called for multi-sectoral collaborative efforts among different actors in the blue economy sector to develop Nigeria’s maritime tourism.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the stakeholders made this call at a one-day seminar entitled ‘Development of National Blue Economy and Coastal Biodiversity in Tourism’ held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center. The event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE) in collaboration with the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN).
The seminar gathered experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and community stakeholders to explore the significant role that the blue economy and coastal biodiversity play in sustainable tourism development. The stakeholders highlighted the need for collaboration among those in the marine ecosystem to harness economic opportunities available in Nigeria’s coastal regions.
They emphasized that maritime tourism includes a variety of sea-based recreational activities and experiences, such as cruising, boating, yachting, and nautical sports, alongside the necessary infrastructure and services. They advocated for collaboration between public and private sectors to ensure economic benefits for coastal communities and national income contribution.
Mr. Abiodun Odusanwo, President of ITPN, noted that as Nigeria’s coastal regions continue to attract millions of visitors annually, stakeholders must balance economic growth with the preservation of marine ecosystems. He identified challenges such as inconsistent government policies, insufficient scientific data, unrestricted resource access, climate change, and over-exploitation that impede blue economy development.
According to Odusanwo, government investments in critical infrastructure like modern ports, coastal roads, and waste management systems are essential. He stressed the importance of a supportive policy and legal framework for promoting the blue economy, including initiatives for balanced economic, environmental, and social development.
Odusanwo also highlighted the roles of the private sector and local communities in driving the growth of the blue economy. The private sector’s investment, innovation, and operational expertise are crucial, while local communities act as stewards of coastal and marine resources, ensuring sustainable and culturally respectful tourism development.
Mr. Abari Ahmed, Assistant Director of Marine Environment Management at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), emphasized the need for community engagement, particularly involving youth, to develop maritime tourism. He advocated for partnerships across different agencies, including non-governmental organizations.
Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), praised the event organizers for their focus on harnessing Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources for national income. Represented by Dr. Edwin Enenta, Fagade stressed that tourism is a multi-stakeholder venture requiring engagement from both public and private sectors.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director Overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, FMACTCE, highlighted the seminar’s aim to unlock Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources’ potential. Represented by Mr. Tony Ukpoju, she underscored the need to position tourism as a key driver in Nigeria’s Blue Economy framework, advocating for multi-sectoral collaborations to develop a sustainable tourism sector.