Stakeholders from the maritime, environmental, financial and policy sectors have called for urgent and coordinated efforts to protect Nigeria’s waterways and unlock the vast potential of the nation’s blue economy during a virtual discussion commemorating World Environment Day and World Oceans Day 2026.
Hosted by Dr. Abiola Bashorun, GMD/GCEO of ZLGA and Kunden Group, the event focused on the theme, “Protecting Our Environment and Oceans for a Sustainable Future,” with particular attention on the environmental and economic implications of wrecked vessels in Nigerian waterways.
The discussion highlighted the dangers posed by abandoned and wrecked vessels, including oil leakage, hazardous waste discharge, marine pollution, threats to biodiversity, declining fish stocks, and risks to maritime navigation and safety. Participants agreed that removing wrecks from Nigeria’s waterways is critical to environmental sustainability, ocean health and the growth of a resilient blue economy.
Speaking during the session, Prof. Stephen Busayo Fakilade, Senior Special Adviser on Marine Economy to the President, said the global ocean economy presents enormous opportunities for Nigeria if properly harnessed. He noted that Nigeria possesses over 800 kilometres of coastline, more than 10,000 kilometres of inland waterways and abundant marine resources, including over 240 commercially viable fish species.
According to him, Nigeria’s ocean resources extend beyond fisheries to include biotechnology, marine transportation and blue energy. He stressed the need for strategic and sustainable management of these resources to drive economic growth while preserving the environment.
Prof. Fakilade said investors and development partners are willing to support viable blue economy projects, but emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). He revealed that government has already approved activities around additional deep-sea ports as part of efforts to position Nigeria as Africa’s maritime hub.
He further stated that while the government is committed to implementing blue economy initiatives, private-sector participation remains essential because of the significant funding requirements. He called for detailed feasibility studies, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture, noting that Nigeria’s annual fish demand of about 4.8 million metric tonnes presents a major investment opportunity capable of creating jobs and facilitating technology transfer.
Addressing concerns about security and investment, Fakilade urged relevant agencies to make regulatory processes more flexible and investor-friendly. He also called for stronger efforts to preserve mangroves and marine ecosystems, stressing that Nigeria must demonstrate readiness to maintain clean oceans and sustainable fishing practices.
On the issue of wreck removal, he noted that the responsibility rests largely with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), adding that healthy waterways are essential for preserving marine resources and supporting economic development.
Marine geophysics expert, Chief Mma Okezie, observed that while maritime transport and blue economy opportunities are significant, inadequate funding remains a major challenge. She noted that 23 states are connected by waterways, creating vast opportunities for transportation, commerce and marine-based industries.
According to him, investment in maritime infrastructure and marine by-products could generate substantial economic returns while strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global blue economy.
Dr. Abiodun Ariyo, Group Head, Global Trade and Structured Finance at Providus Bank, described resource allocation as a critical component of sustainable development. He emphasized the need for investments in environmental initiatives, including reforestation and waste management programmes, to support broader economic growth and ecological sustainability.
Other participants, including Emeka Okonkwo and Patricia, stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment that encourages investment, generates employment opportunities and delivers tangible benefits to local communities.
Throughout the discussion, speakers advocated stronger collaboration among government agencies, maritime stakeholders, environmental organisations and private-sector partners. They agreed that sustainable financing mechanisms, policy reforms and strategic partnerships are essential to accelerate wreck removal projects and improve the health of Nigeria’s waterways, oceans and coastal ecosystems.
Delivering the closing remarks, Tobi Adedokun reaffirmed ZGlobal’s commitment to environmental sustainability, describing the organisation’s activities as a continuous mission dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
The event concluded with a renewed call for action, urging stakeholders to move beyond virtual discussions and engage directly with investors, policymakers and development partners to transform ideas into practical projects that will secure a sustainable blue future for Nigeria.
