Listen to story here
The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has called for greater investment in knowledge, innovation and sustainable policies to secure the future of the oceans and the environment.
Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd) Ph.D, Director General, IMION, made this call in a press statement issued in commemoration of the 2026 World Oceans Day celebrated annually on June 8th.
Udofia remarked that this year’s World Oceans Day theme, “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know, A New Relationship with Our Ocean,” is a timely reminder that the ocean is not merely a resource for exploitation but a vital life-support system that sustains livelihoods, biodiversity, trade and global prosperity.
His words: “The United Nations notes that the observance challenges humanity to rethink its relationship with the ocean and embrace sustainable approaches that restore and protect marine ecosystems.
“For Nigeria, this call is particularly significant. With over 853 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea, the nation’s future prosperity is closely linked to the sustainable development of its maritime resources. As Africa increasingly embraces the Blue Economy as a driver of economic growth, the need for highly skilled professionals, sound policies and cutting-edge research has never been greater.”
According to him, it was in recognition of this imperative that the Nigerian Navy established the IMION as a specialised research, training and policy advocacy institution dedicated to advancing knowledge across the Blue Economy ecosystem.
“Through research, capacity building and strategic partnerships, IMION is building the talent pipeline and institutional capacity required to strengthen ocean governance, maritime safety and security, marine technology, transport systems, climate resilience and sustainable resource management.
“As a Centre of Excellence, IMION remains committed to supporting Nigeria and the wider Gulf of Guinea region with the knowledge and expertise necessary to unlock the immense opportunities of the Blue Economy while safeguarding the health of marine and coastal ecosystems for future generations,” he added.
The IMION Director General also commented on the recent World Environment Day 2026, themed “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” stressing that it further reinforces the urgency of collective action in addressing climate change and environmental degradation.
“With rising temperatures, coastal erosion, flooding, biodiversity loss and other climate-related threats becoming increasingly evident, environmental sustainability can no longer be treated as a secondary consideration in development planning.
“For maritime nations such as Nigeria, the futures of the environment and the ocean are inseparable. Climate change directly affects ocean health, fisheries, coastal communities, maritime infrastructure and economic productivity. Addressing these challenges requires evidence-based policymaking, stronger environmental governance, innovative technologies and sustained investment in human capital development,” he explained.
IMION therefore urges governments, industry leaders, academic institutions, development partners and local communities to deepen collaboration in promoting sustainable maritime development and climate resilience. Through research, education and policy innovation, Nigeria can build a Blue Economy that delivers economic growth, environmental stewardship and social prosperity.
As the world reflects on these important global observances, IMION reaffirmed its commitment to advancing knowledge, shaping policy and developing the expertise needed to secure a sustainable ocean and a healthier environment for present and future generations.
