Godsent Ogbebor
Stakeholders Set for Niger Delta Blue Economy Summit
Stakeholders in Africa’s maritime and environmental sectors are preparing for the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit scheduled for February 9–11, 2026, at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The summit, themed “Harnessing Blue Economy Potentials for Sustainable Development in the Niger Delta,” is aimed at repositioning the region as a leading player in Africa’s evolving blue economy space.
Former Tunisian Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa is expected to deliver the keynote address, while other notable speakers include World Ocean Council President Paul Holthus, former National Hydrographer Rear Admiral Lambert, Ian McFadzen of the Ocean Conservation Trust, and Professor Pierre Failler of the Centre for Blue Governance at the University of Portsmouth. Representatives of relevant federal ministries will also be in attendance.
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Co-convener and blue economy advocate, Dr Uche Igwe, who confirmed the event, described the summit as long overdue. He said it would help the Niger Delta mobilise resources for environmental recovery, expand economic opportunities, and move away from its “paradox of plenty” reputation.
A blue economy consultant, Kingdom Blessing, commended President Bola Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, noting that the summit will build on the new policy direction by designing a roadmap that benefits communities across the region.
Jonathan Turner, co-founder of NLA International and a technical partner for the summit, said the organisers deliberately adopted an inclusive approach that brings policymakers, private sector actors, civil society and local communities together for a people-centred conversation.
The Niger Delta, with 853 kilometres of coastline and rich marine ecosystems, holds vast potential in fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, tourism, and renewable energy. However, weak regulation, environmental damage and limited investment have slowed its growth.
Chairman of the Summit Advisory Committee, retired Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ofik, expressed confidence in the region’s prospects. He said coastal communities like his hometown, Ikuru Town, could become globally competitive tourism hubs with the right infrastructure.
Summit Director of Africa Partnerships, Tshego Motsoenyane, added that participants would also review successful blue economy models from countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia and Mauritius.
The event will include the launch of the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Fund, which is expected to stimulate new development initiatives across the region.
