The Director General of National Broadcasting Commission, Dr. Charles Ebuebu has identified the broadcast sector as a unique platform to effectively communicate the stories of the maritime industry and the Blue Economy in Nigeria.
Ebuebu, who was speaking at the 2nd edition of African Maritime Art Exhibition (AMAE) themed: “The Convergence: Maritime meets ICT”, observed that broadcasting could provide engaging narratives, documentaries, and visual storytelling, that illuminate the vast potential and challenges faced by the maritime sector.
The NBC boss, who was represented by the Chief ICT Officer of the Agency, Mrs. Ayo Tayo-Ogunkorode, posited that by leveraging the broadcast platform, the nation can bridge the gap between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and the general public, thereby fostering a shared understanding of the Blue Economy’s significance.
“A convergence of the broadcast sector and the marine industry presents unique opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The broadcast industry can contribute to the Blue Economy by leveraging cutting-edge technologies, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, to provide immersive experiences that bring the maritime world closer to the audience. Through innovative content creation, the broadcast sector can demystify the complexities of maritime operations, bringing forth the stories of those who navigate the seas and contribute to the vibrancy of the Blue Economy,” he said.
According to the NBC Director General, forging a collaborative approach between maritime and the broadcast sector would ensure that the blue economy is not just a distant entity but an integral part of shared narrative, shaping the discourse around sustainable practices and future opportunities.
“This innovative approach not only enhances public engagement but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable practices within the Blue Economy. Let us embrace the holistic perspective that AMAE offers—the intersection of art, broadcast, and the Blue Economy. Together, let us amplify the voices of the maritime sector, celebrating its economic significance, cultural richness, and potential for growth. May the captivating artworks on display serve as a catalyst for dialogue, collaboration, and renewed commitment to advancing the Blue Economy in Nigeria and across the African continent. Together, let us explore new horizons and navigate the converging waters of tradition and technology,” he remarked.
While delivering the conference lecture, UK Government Country Lead & Programme Adviser and Global Digital Access Programme in Nigeria, Mr. Idongesit Udoh, advised the Nigerian Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to rely on Information Communication Technology (ICT) for predictive analytics for blue economy growth.
Udoh who presented a paper titled: “ICT Disruptions for the Sustainability of the Blue Economy”, observed a need for human capital development and infusion of technology in the nation’s maritime space.
“Are our decisions in the maritime space driven by technology? What’s the overall perception of technology? How do the maritime operators utilize technology to drive efficiency in their operations?” he queried.
The Guest Speaker, Udoh, advised port users, operators and regulators to take advantage of the available digital trainings to update their skills to modern ICT adoptions.
In the keynote address, the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola CON, described maritime art as a viable alternative to project the enormous potentials available in Nigeria’s blue economy, thereby diminishing sea blindness in the country.
The Minister, who was represented by Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, noted that as art connects with human emotions it could be a very effective tool in driving the agenda and ideals of the maritime industry.
His words: “Maritime Art Exhibition is another way to reach out to Nigerians about blue economy. It can be an effective way to build the consciousness of the maritime in the minds of Nigerians. With the creation of the new Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, there is a greater need for this awareness to enable citizens grasp the importance of the sector.”
He, however, assured that the Ministry is willing to collaborate with industry stakeholders to infuse the required technologies and infrastructure to optimize the huge socio-economic gains accruable from the sector.
The highpoint of the event was the art exhibition opening by the Blue Economy Minister’s representative accompanied by maritime bigwigs including; the Consul General, Danish Embassy, Jette Bjerrum; Principal Partner, Jean Chiazor and Partners, Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN); President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Eunice Ezeoke; Vice President, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS), Ify Akerele; first Nigerian female Bonded Terminal Operator, Chief Executive, AML Bonded Terminal, Mrs. Affi Ibanga.
Others were; Nigeria’s representative at African Women in Maritime (WIMAFRICA), Mrs. Gloria Kanabe; Commercial Manager, AP Moller Terminals, Temilade Ogunniyi; Director General, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS), Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike; President, Female Seafarers Association of Nigeria (FESAN), Koni Duniya; Assistant Director, Public Relations, NIMASA, Mr. Osagie Edwards; Engineering Manager, Radial Circle Technical Services, Engr. Ajibade Hamzat; among others.
