Blue Economy TV Launched in Lagos, Stakeholders Highlight Media’s Role in Maritime Growth* 

 

 

Lagos, Nigeria — March 23, 2026

 

 

Abraham Joshua

 

 

The Blue Economy Academy has officially launched Blue Economy TV, a dedicated media platform designed to promote awareness, education, and policy engagement within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy sector.

 

The event brought together key stakeholders, including media practitioners, industry players, and government representatives, as the Academy unveiled what it described as a strategic communication tool to reposition Nigeria as a “blue nation.”

Opening Remarks and

The event commenced with an introduction by Ismail Aniemu, who welcomed guests and highlighted the significance of the platform. He described Blue Economy TV as a timely initiative aimed at amplifying conversations around Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy potential.

 

Founder’s Address: Vision Behind Blue Economy TV

In his keynote address, Ubong Essien, Founder of the Blue Economy Academy, traced the inspiration behind the initiative, noting that his experience in public service—particularly at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)—shaped his understanding of the sector’s untapped potential.

He explained that although he initially intended to return to private practice as a professional speaker and coach, his continued passion for the maritime sector led to the establishment of the Academy and, subsequently, the TV platform.

 

According to him, the Blue Economy Academy, which is approaching its second anniversary, was created with a clear mission: to see a Nigeria that prospers by water. He emphasized that the institution focuses on delivering “knowledge you can use”—practical, actionable learning designed for immediate implementation across sectors.

He highlighted that Nigeria’s vast coastal and inland water resources, stretching from Badagry to Bakassi, remain underutilized, stressing the need to move beyond traditional maritime activities and embrace the broader blue economy ecosystem.

 

Media as a Catalyst for Change

A central theme of the event was the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and influencing policy.

 

Essien noted that Blue Economy TV would serve as a platform for agenda-setting discussions, industry analysis, policy engagement, and public education. He emphasized that the goal is to eliminate “sea blindness”—a lack of awareness about the importance of water resources—among both policymakers and the general public

 

Delivering his remarks, Emmanuel Oluwadamilola, Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State, described the launch as a “symbolic moment” in the state’s development journey.

 

He highlighted Lagos’ strategic advantages, including:

Over 180 kilometers of coastline

More than 140 kilometers of inland waterways

A maritime corridor supporting over 70% of Nigeria’s international trade

 

He noted that the platform represents more than just a media initiative, describing it as “an awakening of consciousness” about the economic and strategic value of water resources.

According to him, the blue economy holds vast opportunities in job creation, food security through fisheries, transportation, tourism, and environmental sustainability.

 

The event proceeded with the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, officially unveiling Blue Economy TV. Attendees were later invited to view the studio and witness the first broadcast segment, marking the platform’s operational debut.

Interactive Session: Policy Priorities and Community Engagement

 

During a media interaction session, the Special Adviser, Mr Emmanuel outlined three key priorities for advancing the blue economy in Lagos State:

 

Education and Awareness – Expanding knowledge of the sector across all levels

 

Infrastructure Development – Strengthening facilities to support maritime activities

 

Fisheries Development – Enhancing production systems and value chains

 

He emphasized that while the opportunities are vast, these focus areas will serve as foundational entry points.

 

Responding to questions on community engagement, he attributed Lagos State’s relative success to political stability, inclusive development policies, and sustained investment in riverine communities. He also noted the role of security agencies, including the Navy and Marine Police, in maintaining safety within waterways.

 

Addressing Grassroots Challenges

Stakeholders also discussed challenges in riverine communities, including poverty and social issues such as teenage pregnancy. It was noted that targeted interventions—particularly in education and economic empowerment—could significantly improve conditions in these areas.

 

The importance of research, data gathering, and structured planning was emphasized as essential for unlocking opportunities in sectors such as fisheries and tourism.

 

The launch of Blue Economy TV marks a significant step in bridging the gap between policy, practice, and public awareness in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the platform will amplify critical conversations and drive action toward harnessing the country’s vast water resources for sustainable development.

As the event concluded, participants were encouraged to actively engage with the platform, reinforcing the message that Nigeria’s future prosperity is closely tied to its waters.