By Ekemini James
Blue Economy is concerned with the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation, while steadily preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.
It encompasses economic activities that depend on the sea, often associated with other economic sectors, including tourism, maritime transport, energy and fishing.
As engines of the global economy, with great potential for growth and innovation, it’s ability to create jobs, spur economic growth, mitigate the impacts of climate change and help meet the food needs of a growing population makes it a vital area of investment under Governor Umo Eno’s administration administration.
With requisite knowledge that the ocean economy is approximately 2.5% of the world gross value and its’ growth will likely outpace that of the global economy in the next 15 years, Governor Umo Eno is making deliberate efforts in line with his ARISE Agenda to boost human capital development by vigorously investing in the Blue Economy.
In the last twenty months in office, Governor Umo Eno has been working to harness all opportunities of wealth creation from the variety of natural resources available in the sea because he understands that, harnessing the potentials of our blue economy and extensively developing the maritime sector has a greater capacity to employ our youthful demography, thereby reducing rural-urban drift, and increasing participation in the exchange market at export levels.
The recent flag-off of Maritime Infrastructure development works in Oron, an aquatic produce commercial hub, ferry terminal and leisure resort, which will be completed September this year shows Governor Umo Eno’s dedication to maritime development.
The project which is meant to rekindle sea line trade activities and reinvigorate the ease of marine transport services in the coastal area, will turn around of the economic fortunes of the people of Oron Federal Constituency by providing daily jobs for over a thousand locals.
At the flag-off, Governor Eno said, “You can be rest assured that we will fulfill our part of the bargain to the contractor. And we look forward to coming here between August and September, because we want to wait to receive the ferry, so that we can commission all on the same day. I’d like to take that ferry to Calabar that day, and also come back.”
He assured that, the Nigerian Navy is going to train about 15 engineers that will ensure that they man the workshop so that the project can have proper maintenance.
When completed, the Oron Maritime Hub will stand as an enduring legacy of purposeful governance. The facility will feature a modern terminal building to efficiently handle passengers and cargo.
The hub will also have expansive storage facilities, including warehouses, dry storage, and solar-powered cold rooms. These facilities will support the fishing industry and ensure the preservation of perishable goods.
To improve cargo movement, passenger transportation, and security patrols across the waterways, the hub will include a new cargo jetty, ferry jetty, and Joint Task Force jetty.
Additionally, shoreline embankment protection using the sheet piling method will prevent erosion and safeguard the investment.
The facility will also have a modern motor park to facilitate easy transport connectivity for commuters and logistics operators. Access roads will also be constructed to ensure the smooth movement of goods and people within the facility.
To enhance security operations in the region, a Maritime Joint Force Outpost will be established within the hub. Recall that, Governor Eno had already donated 14 new patrol gunboats to the Navy and security agencies to reinforce safety across the waterways.
Other facilities at the hub will include a boat repair workshop to provide maintenance services for maritime operators, a one-pump fuel dump to support marine operations, and car and lorry parks to facilitate access to maritime services while reducing congestion.
The facility will be secured with fencing and gatehouses to ensure controlled access. Beyond its economic and security benefits, the Oron Maritime Hub is also designed to be a major tourist attraction, unlocking the region’s leisure and hospitality potential.
To cater to tourists, the hub will feature a floating bar, offering a unique waterfront experience where visitors can enjoy the coastal scenery while relaxing over refreshments. Customer recreational sit-outs and an event stand will create a vibrant atmosphere for social gatherings, live performances, and cultural activities.
The project will include an upgraded sand beach, making Oron a prime destination for relaxation, water sports, and beachfront entertainment.
