…urges investors to troop to Benue
By Lubem Gena, Makurdi
The Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has congratulated stakeholders in the maritime and blue economy sector, describing them as resilient partners in advancing trade, aquaculture, inland waterways, and allied value chains that drive growth in Nigeria and beyond.
Hon. Iyaghigba, in a statement to mark the 2025 World Maritime Day, said the commemoration offers a platform to celebrate the ingenuity and collective efforts of players sustaining the sector as a vital engine of economic growth, environmental sustainability, and global connectivity.
He lauded the state Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for creating the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Benue, noting that the state is strategically positioned to play a leading role in Nigeria’s emerging blue economy agenda due to its vast water resources.
Regarding investment into the value chain activities, he called on investors, researchers, development partners, and entrepreneurs to seize opportunities in the sector, the Commissioner outlined areas such as aquaculture and fisheries, inland waterways transportation, boat building, logistics, eco-tourism, and renewable energy as key value chains that can unlock wealth, create jobs for youths, enhance food security, and strengthen the state’s economy.
“As a ministry, we are committed to providing an enabling policy environment, institutional support, and frameworks for effective public-private partnerships,” Iyaghigba assured.
“By working together, we can unlock the full potential of the marine and blue economy for the present generation and those yet unborn”, he added.
He urged stakeholders to liaise with the ministry to harness the state’s vast opportunities while reaffirming the government’s determination to position Benue as a hub of Nigeria’s blue economy drive.
