Economy

NIIA DG Backs Nigeria’s Blue Economy Drive

By Web News 348

By Mary Fatile (Abuja)

Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, has applauded the Federal Government’s renewed focus on the Blue Economy, describing the sector as “a gold mine” capable of accelerating national development if supported by strong intellectual and institutional capacity.

Professor Osaghae made the remarks at an Executive Training on the Blue Economy held in Apapa, Lagos.

He said Nigeria had finally aligned with global economic trends by embracing ocean-based development, noting that the country must invest in knowledge, capacity building, and coordinated governance to maximize opportunities.

He stressed the importance of adopting “non-kinetic approaches” to maritime security, including dialogue, cooperation, and joint problem-solving with coastal communities.

According to him, Nigeria’s ocean governance should follow the United Nations’ multi-stakeholder model, with authorities working closely with community-based organizations, civil society groups, local stakeholders, and traditional institutions.

In his opening remarks, Director-General of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (rtd), described the training as a critical step toward strengthening Nigeria’s maritime sector amid global environmental and security challenges.

He said the course was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of marine governance, enhance institutional capacity, and promote a unified national strategy for managing ocean resources.

Rear Admiral Udofia emphasized that solving maritime challenges requires not just policies and infrastructure but a well-informed cadre of professionals equipped to drive sustainable development.

The three-day training brought together naval officers and stakeholders from various institutions.

Our correspondent reports that the IMION Advanced Course will examine contemporary frameworks for blue economy development, scientific perspectives, emerging technologies, and practical strategies for balancing environmental protection with economic growth.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Lifestyle

Ajimobi Roundtable: Prof. Osaghae Gives Recipe for True Democracy

By Web News 386

True democracy can only be achieved when there is an enabling environment for every citizen to participate in the governance process of their country.

This was the submission of the Director General, Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Professor Eghosa Osaghae at the 5th Senator Abiola Ajimobi Roundtable and 73rd Posthumous Birthday held in Ibadan.

Delivering a Paper on ‘Deeping Nigeria’s Democracy for Sustainable Development’, Professor Osaghae said it was only when citizens had access to gainful employment, good health and other basic amenities that they could be actively involved in governance, which would then birth true democracy.

Professor Osaghae decried the current situation where some citizens sell themselves to desperate politicians who only used them to achieve their ambitions.

The don argued that this trajectory would only result in low levels of development in the country. 

Earlier in a remark, the wife of the former Governor of Oyo State, Dr Florence Ajimobi stated that it was time to reflect on the Nation’s democratic and developmental requirements, especially as the 2023 General Elections draw nearer.

Dr Ajimobi said evolving an all-inclusive and effective public participation in democratic processes was key to the enjoyment of the dividends of democracy by all citizens.

The son of the late governor, who is the APC candidate for Ibadan Southwest State Constituency 2, Mr Idris Abiola-Ajimobi said his Father stood for good governance during his lifetime, and that the annual roundtable was a way to sustain his legacy.

Mr Idris Abiola-Ajimobi said though his Father would always be missed, the family would always be proud of his exemplary life.

In a keynote address, Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare said the impact the former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi had on the country’s political scene would be evergreen.

In a goodwill message, Oluwo of Iwo land, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, noted that there must be stiffer punishment for corrupt political officeholders, as that was the only way to sanitize the country’s democratic system.

Other dignitaries at the ceremony were the representative of the Ooni of Ife, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Oyo APC Governorship candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin and the Accord Governorship candidate, Chief Bayo Adelabu.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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