The Comptroller of Immigration, Marine Border Management, Kalu Ibe Olugu, has expressed strong optimism that Nigeria’s blue economy is on the verge of significant expansion, declaring that the sector could witness remarkable growth within the next three years if backed by decisive policy implementation.
Olugu, who spoke after participating in the Executive Programme on Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), described the training as both impactful and necessary, noting that it delivered valuable insights into the country’s maritime future.
He stated that the programme was “worth attending,” commending the depth of lectures and the quality of engagement, which he said enriched his professional perspective on marine governance and economic opportunities.
The immigration comptroller disclosed that the participation of officers from the Nigeria Immigration Service was made possible through the support of the Comptroller General, Kemi Nanna Nandap, who approved their attendance in recognition of the programme’s strategic importance.
Olugu stressed that the blue economy represents a critical pathway for Nigeria’s economic diversification, but warned that its success would depend largely on the political will of government to implement policies developed through expert engagements.
“I believe in the next three years, the blue economy will blossom,” he said, adding that the foundation has already been laid through programmes such as the IMION initiative.
He, however, emphasised that policy formulation alone would not deliver results, insisting that deliberate and sustained execution must follow to unlock the sector’s full potential.
Reflecting on his personal experience, Olugu noted that the programme had significantly broadened his understanding of the blue economy, equipping him with knowledge that would enhance his role in marine border management.
He identified lack of awareness as a major barrier to progress, pointing out that many Nigerians, particularly those in coastal and riverine communities, are yet to fully grasp the opportunities embedded in the blue economy.
According to him, targeted sensitisation remains key to driving participation and ensuring that stakeholders at all levels align with the sector’s objectives.
Olugu maintained that once awareness improves, individuals and institutions will naturally key into the opportunities, leading to widespread socio-economic benefits.
He further noted that the collaborative nature of the programme, which brought together participants from different sectors, underscored the importance of partnership in advancing Nigeria’s maritime agenda.
The immigration comptroller also highlighted the need for continued engagement among agencies, stressing that inter-agency cooperation would be critical in addressing security, regulatory, and developmental challenges within the maritime domain.
He observed that the knowledge shared during the programme has the potential to influence policy direction and operational strategies across participating institutions.
Olugu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to applying the lessons learned, expressing confidence that sustained collaboration and awareness would accelerate growth in the sector.
The event attracted wide participation from maritime stakeholders, paramilitary agencies, and members of the public, reflecting growing national interest in the blue economy as a driver of future prosperity.