Olu of Warri urges Niger Delta to Lead Blue Economy Drive, Protect Environment

The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, has urged Niger Delta communities to unite and take the lead in harnessing opportunities in the emerging blue economy while protecting the region’s fragile environment.

Speaking at the maiden Warri Blue Economy Summit (WABES) 2026 in Warri, Delta State, on Wednesday, the monarch and convened, said the region must avoid the mistakes of previous economic booms by adopting a development model that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability.

He described the blue economy as a new frontier for prosperity and called for a “new blueprint for responsible capitalism” that ensures local communities benefit directly from development.

He also highlighted the economic value of the Niger Delta’s mangrove forests, advocating participation in global carbon credit markets to generate income, create jobs and fund conservation efforts.

Representatives of the Federal Government reaffirmed support for the sector. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Director of Legal Services, Irene Ideva, said Nigeria possesses the natural resources and strategic advantages needed to become Africa’s leading blue economy destination through investments in maritime transport, fisheries, aquaculture, logistics, offshore services and marine tourism.

Also speaking, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, represented by her Technical Adviser, Kabir Masanawa, urged stakeholders to expand the blue economy conversation beyond shipping and fisheries to include culture, tourism and the creative industries.

Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Temisan Omatseye, identified agriculture, solid minerals, natural gas and human capital development as key drivers of economic growth and called for the development of the Warri Port beyond its current feeder-port status to unlock greater maritime and trade opportunities.

The summit, themed “Harnessing Our Blue Wealth for Sustainable Growth and Shared Prosperity,” continues until June 27, bringing together government officials, traditional institutions, investors and development partners to explore pathways for sustainable economic diversification and shared prosperity in the Niger Delta.