Stakeholders call for stronger enforcement of maritime regulations to boost Africa’s blue economy

Stakeholders at the 3rd International Conference on “Global Maritime Regulations to Tangible Actions” have called for the effective implementation of maritime regulations across Africa to unlock the full potential of the blue economy.

The hybrid conference was organised by the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC).

Speaking at the event, the Director of the Institute, Professor Florence Orabueze, said Africa stands at a critical stage in maritime development, with vast coastlines, strategic shipping routes, and expanding port infrastructure.

Despite these advantages, she said the continent continues to struggle with weak enforcement of existing regulatory frameworks.

“While policies are often well articulated, their impact is weakened by poor implementation,” she said. “This gap requires urgent attention if Africa is to realise its maritime potential.”

Professor Orabueze said the conference was designed to move stakeholders beyond policy discussions toward practical and measurable solutions that support sustainable maritime growth.

She described the theme as both timely and necessary.

In a presentation, Professor Lucky Worika of Rivers State University said global maritime conventions covering safety, environmental protection, and operations remain largely ineffective without strong domestic enforcement.

He identified key challenges in maritime governance across Africa to include weak institutional capacity, fragmented regulatory systems, inadequate infrastructure, corruption, and poor inter-agency coordination.

He called for integrated governance structures, improved port facilities, stronger environmental compliance systems, increased investment in technology, and deeper regional cooperation.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr Mark Okoye, said maritime efficiency remains central to economic growth, noting that about 90 per cent of global trade is transported by sea.

Represented by the Executive Director for Natural Resources, Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Clifford Ogbede, he said Nigeria continues to face inefficiencies in logistics and port operations despite its strategic position in the sector.

He noted that the global blue economy is valued at more than $1.5 trillion annually, urging Nigeria to take greater advantage through investment in inland waterways, aquaculture, and related industries.

Former Chairman of the Enugu Sports Club, Chief Ben Etiaba, also urged Nigeria to position itself strategically to benefit from maritime opportunities through stronger institutions, effective policies, and increased investment in research and human capital development.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Simeon Ortuanya, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Josephat Onwumere, commended the institute for sustaining a platform that aligns with global maritime trends.

He said such engagements are vital in shaping policy dialogue and strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and government.