The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting private sector-led economic growth and unlocking opportunities in the blue economy to drive national development.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara made the pledge at the opening of the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) in Port Harcourt.
Represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, Fubara described the conference theme: “The Gulf of Guinea and Blue Economy: Pathways to Trade, Investment and Security Towards a $1 Trillion Economy,” as timely, given the vast potential of the maritime sector.
The Governor said the blue economy could generate revenue that surpasses earnings from Nigeria’s oil and gas sector if properly developed and managed.
He urged Nigeria and other Gulf of Guinea nations to harness their maritime resources and prevent the continued exploitation of coastal assets by foreign operators.
Fubara expressed concern over the activities of foreign fishing trawlers in Nigerian waters, noting that many exploit the country’s seafood resources without making significant contributions to the economy.
He called for stronger monitoring systems and better protection of Nigeria’s marine resources.
“We must wake up and hit the ground running. If we do not capitalize on and utilize our blue economy, other nations will utilize it for us,” he said.
The Governor also noted that hosting the conference in Rivers State reflects the state’s peaceful environment and readiness to attract investment.
Earlier, the NACCIMA National President, Jani Ibrahim thanked the Rivers State Government for hosting the 66th Annual Conference and for the warm reception given to delegates.
He said the event had boosted investor confidence in the state’s economic potential and reaffirmed NACCIMA’s commitment to supporting business growth in Nigeria.
In her welcome address, the President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA), Dr. Chinyere Nwoga, described the conference as historic.
Dr Nwoga noted that it was the first time in the chamber’s 66-year history that it was hosting NACCIMA’s national conference.
She pledged PHCCIMA’s continued support for initiatives that promote sustainable economic growth through private sector participation.
