Developing the Blue Economy Concept in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Abstract
Countries across the world are leveraging the blue economy (BE) as a strategic framework for the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources, driving economic growth and creating employment. Economic activities emanating from marine and coastal environments are contributing significantly to the economies of the world. This review explores the role of BE in enhancing national prosperity and proposes actionable pathways for Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria (AKS) to harness its marine potentials. It highlights the vast opportunities and existing legal frameworks that support BE, examines the UN-SDGs alignment, identifies key sectors for exploitation, and analyzes the challenges and solutions for sustainable implementation. The study design followed the survey technique and through qualitative insights and reference to global practices, the paper affirms that Akwa Ibom State can effectively leverage its marine and coastal assets for inclusive growth and sustainability. Major barriers to be encountered include over-exploitation, insecurity and piracy, limited infrastructure and oil spillages. These challenges could result to stock depletion and loss of revenue, pollution and destruction of marine ecosystems as well as exacerbating climate change phenomena. However, these obstacles can be mitigated to ensure success of this concept in AKS and its contribution to national prosperity.
