Business
MAN Tasks Rivers, Bayelsa On Blue Economy
The 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa States chapter of the d marine technology.
In a Communique jointly signed8gß by the Chairman, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch, Vincent Okuku, Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee, Michael Nosa Agana, and Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch, Chibuzor Eze, the MAN insisted that human capital gaps must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs emphasising that the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
While noting that MAN’s collaboration with Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) has the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, it stated however, that the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades including roads, waterways, and power for its optimal functionality.
The communique emphasised that the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries, saying “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
MAN stressed the need for Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth, calling for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, Chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri, for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
Okuku, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, insisting that these have continued to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
Also speaking, MAN’s National President, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion, and called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
In his remarks, Gov Diri lauded MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development.
Diri who stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of ‘Assured Prosperity’, pledged a 24 hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state.
He highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
The governor further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by the Director of Community Development and Education, Wasa Festus and the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
It would be noted that unlike former meetings held in PortHarcourt, Rivers State, the Bayelsa State government played host to the 41st MAN AGM, held at the Chief D.S.P Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’