The Bayelsa State Government has partnered with the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to strengthen technical skills and stakeholder capacity in the state’s emerging blue economy sector.
According to the post shared on the government platform on Tuesday, the collaboration was marked by the launch of a two-day upskilling programme themed “Strengthening Stakeholders’ Capacity for an All-Inclusive and Sustainable Blue Economy”, held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Onopa, Yenagoa.
Governor Douye Diri, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayaowei, expressed appreciation to the World Bank and the Federal Government for what he described as timely support.
He said Bayelsa is accelerating efforts to unlock the economic opportunities along the Atlantic coastline, noting that ongoing road projects are designed to connect the state directly to the Atlantic.
He stressed that prosperity for the state depends on fully harnessing its marine potential.
“In trying to harness the potential of the Atlantic, we are on a fast lane to hit the Atlantic with road networks. If we don’t hit the Atlantic, there cannot be prosperity the way we want to define it,” he stated.
Bayelsa’s Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, said the programme would help strengthen the foundations for a modern, sustainable and inclusive marine-based economy.
Technical Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, commended Governor Diri for supporting the sector and noted Bayelsa’s proactive stance as the first state in the country to create a dedicated Ministry for Marine and Blue Economy.
The event also featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Edmond Allison Oguru, who spoke on “Harnessing the Blue Economy Potentials in Bayelsa State,” offering insights into the resources and opportunities available within the state’s coastal and marine environment.
The programme attracted dignitaries including Commissioner for Information Hon. Ebiuwou Obiyai, Special Adviser on Aquaculture Hon. Uroupaye Nimizuo, Hon. Godspower Ake, Hon. Ebikitin Diongoli, delegates from Niger Delta University, and key stakeholders in the marine sector.
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