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By Stella Obi

 

Experts in marine and ocean sustainability have called for collective efforts towards the proper utilisation and preservation of oceans in the country.

Speaking during the 4th annual symposium organised by African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI), with the theme "Achieving Blue Growth in a Changing Climate (Integrating the Coastal Communities)," the experts encouraged the protection of the African marine environment.

Giving his remarks at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, noted that if the oceans are well managed, they will create employment for youths.

The Minister who was represented by Prof Stephen Fakinlede reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to safety and sustainable blue economy.

Alhaji Oyetola commended the organisers of the programme for creating awareness on marine and ocean sustainability.

Presenting his lecture on the theme of the symposium, the Executive Director, Operations and Technical Services, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, advised the Federal Government to invest in carbon credits to attract sustainable development in the Marine and Blue Economy Sector.

 

He observed that there is potential wealth in carbon credit which allows coastal communities to earn N320million annually.

Enisuoh explained carbon credits as permits that allow the owner to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases.

He said that the greenhouse emissions and other challenges of climate change could be converted as a roadmap for employment generation and development for coastal communities if the potentials are harnessed.

In her remarks the Founder and President of AFMESI, Dr. Felecia Chinwe Mogo, called for collaboration of coastal communities and stakeholders in the Marine and Blue Economy sector towards promoting marine regulation and development.

According to Dr. Mogo, the organisation plans to expand its community-based projects, engage in training, resources and support to empower the local population to take an active role in managing their resources.

Contributing the Executive Secretary of AFMESI, Chiamaka Mogo, while reeling out achievements of the organisation since its eight years of existence called on all to help promote sustainable marine environment.

In her lecture entitled "Marine Conservation and Biodiversity Protection with Particular Focus on Fisheries Aquaculture," Dr. Ochuko Patience Obatola, said that the ocean was suffering due to human impact and urged all to unite for a healthy ocean.