Marine, Blue economy to unlock economic potential by Prof Aghalino

Marine and Blue Economy has been identified as one of the sectors key to unlocking Nigeria’s socio-economic potential and transformation. A university don, Prof Samuel Aghalino FHSN, who spoke on 6th October 2024 at a news conference in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, said the sector is crucial to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Prof Aghalino is also the president of the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) ahead of the Society’s 69th annual conference in the state this week.

He said the 69th annual conference of the HSN, the oldest professional association established in 1955 is a testament to their commitment to the study and advancement of history as a discipline that informs their nation-building efforts.

Prof. Aghalino said: “Today, the global focus on the blue economy underscores the importance of our maritime resources. This is precisely why the current government of President Bola Tinubu has established a ministry dedicated to Marine and Blue Economy initiatives. By harnessing our abundant coastal resources, we can drive significant economic transformations. Our discussions this week aim to extract valuable insights that can pave the way for actionable recommendations toward exploiting our water bodies. The outcomes of our deliberations will not only contribute to academic discourse but will also have practical implications for policy and nation-building strategies. Over the years, our conferences have engaged with pivotal issues related to national development. This year, we are excited to delve into the maritime domain, recognising its vital role in Nigeria’s socio-economic framework. Our discussions will not only reflect on historical perspectives but also engage with contemporary themes that resonate with our aspirations for a cohesive national identity. Last year, in Lagos, we explored environmental challenges, and this year, we pivoted towards the maritime sector. Our focus on water bodies emphasises their significance in economic transformation, cultural integration, and national identity. Given Nigeria’s extensive coastline, we must critically assess how these waterways have shaped our development trajectory. As historians, our responsibility extends to interrogating aspects of hydro-politics, maritime infrastructure, and the illicit activities that plague our waters. We will examine the dynamics between host communities and multinational companies, especially those involved in offshore oil exploitation. It is essential to understand these relationships, as they heavily influence our maritime economy and, by extension, our national prosperity. I would like to take this opportunity to highlight one of our flagship events, the annual Lecture. It’s a significant highlight of our annual conference, where we invite distinguished speakers to share their perspectives on relevant historical themes.”

The HSN President said they are honoured to welcome Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri as their Special Guest at the opening ceremony. He said the governor’s presence underscores the importance of their discussions as they work toward a shared understanding of Nigeria’s maritime heritage and future.

The high point of the conference was the society’s courtesy visit to the Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri.