The Institute of Maritime Studies, Niger Delta University (NDU), has announced plans to host the 1st Annual International Conference and Trade Exhibition on Marine and Blue Economy (IMBABEC 2025) with the theme “Sustainable Blue Economy: Advancing Safety, Economic and Social Resilience in the Coastal Ecosystem.”
Speaking at a press briefing, the Director of the Institute, Engr. Capt. Charles A. N. Johnson, PhD, said the conference is designed to stimulate national and regional awareness on the enormous potentials of the blue economy and to foster collaboration among government agencies, academia, industries, and local communities.
According to him, IMBABEC 2025 will feature panel discussions, trade exhibitions, cultural entertainment, a gala night, and an awards ceremony, adding that the conference aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and policy dialogue in the maritime and marine sectors. Dr. Johnson explained that the key objectives of the conference include promoting investment and innovation in marine-based sectors, encouraging sustainable job creation and youth empowerment, showcasing research, technology, and development initiatives within the maritime domain, and providing a forum for institutional synergy towards a resilient and inclusive blue economy in Nigeria and West Africa.
He emphasized that Bayelsa State stands to gain significantly from hosting the event, as it will project the state as a strategic hub for blue economy development and attract investments in marine infrastructure, aquaculture, and tourism. “Participants will benefit from knowledge-sharing sessions, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, business networking opportunities, and policy insights that can shape the future of their organizations and communities,” he added.
The three-day conference is scheduled to hold from November 18 to 20, 2025, at the Diete Spiff Conference Centre, Golden Tulip Hotel, Government House, Yenagoa, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.
Expected dignitaries include His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; as well as heads of major maritime institutions such as NIMASA, NPA, NDDC, NSC, and NIWA, alongside industry leaders, researchers, development partners, students, and representatives of coastal communities. Dr. Johnson expressed optimism that IMBABEC 2025 will become a landmark event positioning Bayelsa and the Niger Delta region as a central player in Africa’s sustainable maritime and blue economy agenda.