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Nigeria stands on the brink of unlocking vast economic and employment opportunities through the marine and blue economy, but experts warn that this potential could remain unrealized unless urgent and systemic changes are made to embed relevant education into the nation’s foundational learning systems.
This call was made during a one-day virtual summit convened by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation (OAF) on Saturday, themed: “Massive Untapped Opportunities to Earn from the Maritime and Blue Economy Within and Outside Nigeria.”
Experts advocated for an immediate integration of marine and blue economy topics into Nigeria’s primary and secondary school curricula through the Ministry of Education and executed in collaboration with the National Education Research and Development Council (NERDC).
They warned that without early exposure to the principles and practices of the blue economy, young Nigerians will continue to overlook viable careers in shipping, marine engineering, aquaculture, and oceanography, among others.
In her welcome address the President of OAF, Hon. (Mrs.) Violet Olaitan Williams, provided the background on the Nigerian educational system and its marine and blue economy.
The high profile speakers at the virtual summit were; Barr. (Mrs.) Oritematosan Edodo-Emore – Chairman, Zoe Maritime Resources, and President, Women in Maritime Organisations of West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA); Dr. (Engr.) Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul – Rector, Yaba College of Technology; Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo – Former Lagos State Commissioner for Education and Principal Consultant/ Chief Executive Officer, Leading Learning Limited; and Mrs. Angela Ajala – Executive Director, Ladela Schools Abuja, and Chief Executive Officer, Teacher Connect.
According to the eggheads, the absence of such content in the current curriculum, is a major contributor to the pervasive ‘sea blindness’ in Nigeria.
Beyond curriculum integration, the summit recommended a national training and certification program for teachers on blue economy topics as educationists and policy advocates argued that the knowledge gap among teachers is a fundamental barrier preventing the transfer of marine-related knowledge to students.
Meanwhile, OAF and other stakeholders called on the government and private sector to actively partner on nationwide training programs that empower teachers to teach marine ecosystems, environmental sustainability, shipping logistics, and marine biodiversity effectively.
Another key recommendation was for educational institutions to proactively initiate marine and blue economy career awareness campaigns within schools. These would include mentorship programs, student clubs, and engagement with industry professionals to inspire interest and participation in the sector.
Stakeholders had observed the global shortage of seafarers and outlined the opportunity for Nigeria with her teeming youths largely unemployed; stressing that Nigeria could rapidly build a pipeline of skilled marine professionals ready to take on both local and global opportunities.
While highlighting the need for targeted initiatives to encourage female participation in marine careers, the speakers blamed cultural biases and lack of exposure on blue economy for the low interest among Nigerian girls.
Coastal communities were equally identified as key stakeholders who must be actively involved in marine education and resource management efforts.
Another consistent theme throughout the summit was the need for public-private partnerships (PPPs) as speakers advocated for collaboration between maritime companies, educational institutions, NGOs, and international bodies to support curriculum development, teacher training, and infrastructure improvements.
