Charting The Blue Horizon: Understanding Nigeria’s Blue Economy -By John Oladipo

INTRODUCTION

The concept of the blue economy, often referred to as the ocean economy, encapsulates the vast spectrum of economic activities tied to our oceans and seas. As per the World Bank’s definition , it signifies the responsible utilization of ocean resources to enhance economies, livelihoods, and the health of marine ecosystems. This economic realm encompasses a diverse array of endeavours, including maritime shipping, fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism, renewable energy, and even undersea cabling, biotechnology, and deep-sea mining . In Nigeria, the blue economy covers activities directly linked to our coastal and marine resources. These activities span ocean-based sectors such as offshore oil and gas, fisheries, shipping, tourism, and ocean energy, while also encompassing ocean-related industries like seafood processing, marine biotechnology, and more.

Nigeria’s blue economy vision harmoniously aligns with global ambitions, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 14, “Life Below Water,” commits to conserving and sustainably using marine resources. This initiative strives to establish a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) covering 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. However, progress has been limited, with current MPAs covering just 7.5% of the oceans .

NAVIGATING COMPLEXITY: GOVERNANCE AND REGULATION

Internationally, the governance of the ocean and the blue economy is complex, which has led to fragmented approaches to the sharing of marine resources between nations. Ocean-related regulations apply to Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), which include territorial waters, archipelagos, and the area of sea that extends 200 nautical miles out from countries’ coastlines. The remaining area is called the High Seas (or ‘open ocean’) and accounts for 64% of the world’s oceans.

Legal frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the International Maritime Organization’s regulations on global shipping play and the High Seas Treaty , among others, pivotal roles. UNCLOS provides the basis for jurisdictional divisions such as Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and High Seas. The recent ground-breaking High Seas Treaty emphasizes marine conservation and equitable access to genetic resources. Additionally, it sets up an Ocean Conference of the Parties (CoP), similar to the climate and biodiversity COPs.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) takes the lead in regulating global shipping and maritime activities. Established under the United Nations, IMO ensures a fair and universally accepted regulatory framework. Central treaties like the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) underscore IMO’s commitment to safety and environmental preservation .

THE NIGERIAN LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Nigeria played an active participant in shaping the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), aiming to establish a more equitable maritime law that resonated with developing nations. The United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (LOSC) – ‘the constitution of the seas’ – was adopted on 30 April 1982 at Montego Bay, Jamaica. Nigeria was one of the states that signed the Convention, which came into force on 16 November 1994, and it became a party to the Convention on 14 August 1986 . This vital agreement encompasses crucial aspects, including territorial sea boundaries, definitions for archipelagic states, delineation of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), protocols for marine scientific research, and much more.

In addition to UNCLOS, Nigeria’s maritime legal landscape encompasses a range of regulations designed to fortify its commitment to responsible maritime practices. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act, the Coastal and Inland Shipping (‘Cabotage’) Act, and the Admiralty Act all contribute to shaping a cohesive framework for maritime governance. This dynamic legal ensemble ensures that Nigeria’s blue economy aspirations are underpinned by effective regulations, propelling the nation towards a future of sustainable blue prosperity.

LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY TO REVITALIZE NIGERIA’S PORT INFRASTRUCTURE FOR BLUE ECONOMY GROWTH

Nigeria’s blue economy is poised for growth, but inadequate infrastructure at its ports poses a significant challenge. Port congestion, limited capacity, and inefficient cargo handling processes hinder the effective utilization of maritime resources . Technology offers a promising avenue to address these infrastructure issues and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Advanced technology solutions can optimize port operations by leveraging data-driven insights. Real-time data analytics can optimize cargo flow, enabling better utilization of existing infrastructure and reducing congestion. Additionally, smart port infrastructure, integrated with sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, can monitor equipment health, predict maintenance needs, and ensure optimal use of resources.

Furthermore, technology can enhance transparency and accountability, crucial for sustainable growth. Blockchain technology can revolutionize documentation processes, minimizing bureaucracy through secure and immutable records. By integrating digital platforms, data sharing, and predictive analytics, Nigeria’s ports can overcome infrastructure challenges, fostering a vibrant blue economy that drives economic growth, promotes sustainable practices, and capitalizes on the nation’s marine resources.

CONCLUSION

As Nigeria navigates the dynamic currents of the blue economy, a delicate equilibrium between economic progress and environmental conservation becomes paramount. With an unwavering commitment to global objectives and effective governance, Nigeria strives to not only unlock the potential of its blue economy but also serve as a dedicated custodian of our invaluable marine resources.

Nigeria’s blue economy voyage embarks amidst a diverse regulatory landscape, emphasizing the urgent need for resolute governmental intervention. The intricate interplay between international laws and treaties and national legislations accentuates the monumental duty to not merely navigate this intricate tapestry, but also steer the nation toward a horizon of flourishing blue prosperity. This journey necessitates prudent resource allocation towards sustainable blue initiatives, steadfast research, and cutting-edge technology development .

Nigeria’s investment in renewable energy, legal fisheries, marine conservation, and eco-friendly tourism echoes its devotion to nurturing a vibrant, environmentally conscious blue economy. A pivotal aspect is empowering regulatory bodies, enforcement agencies, and local communities through capacity-building initiatives. Enhanced monitoring and regulation of maritime activities stand as the cornerstones of this approach.

Also, fostering platforms for collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders further underscores Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive blue economy roadmap. Engaging coastal communities, industry stakeholders, environmental advocates, and experts ensures that a diverse array of insights shapes this transformative journey.

Ultimately, propelling the blue economy necessitates ground-breaking policy innovation that embodies principles of equitable access, economic prosperity, and environmental safeguarding. Nigeria embarks on this dynamic voyage with policies that adeptly respond to evolving circumstances while unwaveringly upholding the core tenets of sustainability.

Lastly, Nigeria’s commitment to a thriving blue economy emerges as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that responsible economic growth and environmental preservation can indeed coexist. With determination, foresight, and collaborative action, Nigeria can sustain blue growth that resonates not only within its shores but reverberates globally.

John is a Senior Partner at Chayfield Law Practice . He heads the firm’s Corporate and Technology Practice where he constantly advises on issues of corporate governance, intellectual property and cybersecurity.
He can be reached at john.oladipo@gmail.com, 0818 919 2781.