Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, on Friday in Calabar, inaugurated a World Bank-backed maritime upskilling programme to boost the state’s role in Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.

Represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, Mr Otu said the initiative would equip citizens with globally competitive maritime skills.

He described the programme as a landmark opportunity to harness the state’s vast marine resources for jobs, growth, and sustainable development.

The governor said Cross River’s long coastline positions it to benefit significantly from the national push to expand the blue economy.

He noted that Nigeria’s maritime sector contributed ₦113.5 trillion to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) in Q3 2025, with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) projecting a potential exceeding $296 billion.

“I am committed to completing key infrastructure, especially the Bakassi Deep Seaport, for which a $3.5 billion investment has been secured.

“The project awaits presidential approval for groundbreaking. We also promise continued collaboration with the World Bank and federal authorities,” Mr Otu said.

Busayo Fakinlede, senior special adviser to the president on marine and blue economy, commended Cross River’s leadership in sustainable marine development.

Mr Fakinlede said the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s priorities on food security, youth empowerment, and economic diversification.

He joked that Cross River should be seen as Nigeria’s “fish basket” due to its strong fishery output.

On her part, World Bank Team Lead Morales Yolanda said the institution would mobilise funding and technical expertise to support the programme’s success.

Similarly, Melodie Lebo, special adviser to the governor on the blue economy, said trainees would acquire modern, internationally recognised maritime competencies.

Ms Lebo added that the programme offered pathways to jobs, internships, and future collaborations, forming the state’s maritime workforce.

She stressed strong federal involvement, noting the presence of senior officials and calling the launch a step toward a coordinated blue economy strategy.

(NAN)