Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Stakeholders in Bayelsa State have identified women as critical drivers in the development of the marine and blue economy, as the state government pledged stronger collaboration to promote gender inclusion across the maritime sector.
The commitment was highlighted during a courtesy visit by the leadership of Women in Maritime Africa, Nigeria Chapter, to the Bayelsa State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Yenagoa.
Receiving the delegation, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, said the ministry remains open to strategic partnerships that promote sustainable maritime development and expand opportunities for women within the sector.
“The ministry is open to strategic collaboration with organisations whose work supports sustainable maritime development,” she said.
According to her, an inclusive blue economy goes beyond the mere exploitation of ocean and marine resources, stressing that the benefits must reach coastal and riverine communities.
“The concept of an inclusive blue economy seeks to ensure that the benefits of maritime development are widely shared through gender balance, community participation, skills development and sustainable livelihoods,” Zibs-Godwin said.
She explained that the ministry’s policy direction recognises the contributions women already make in fisheries, fish processing, marine trade and other ocean-based economic activities.
“Our approach recognises the vital role women already play in fisheries, fish processing, marine trade and other ocean-based economic activities, while also creating pathways for their greater participation and leadership within the sector,” she added.
The commissioner noted that the ministry’s strategy aligns with the development agenda of Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri.
“This approach is in line with the Assured Prosperity Agenda of Governor Douye Diri, which prioritises people-centred development, institutional strengthening and sustainable economic opportunities for the people of Bayelsa State,” she said.
Earlier, President of WIMAfrica Nigeria, Theodora Nwaeze, said the association remains committed to strengthening women’s participation in the maritime industry.
“WIMAfrica remains committed to promoting the participation of women in the maritime industry through advocacy, mentorship, professional development and capacity building across the maritime value chain,” Nwaeze said.
She explained that the visit provided an opportunity to introduce the association’s new leadership team and explore areas of collaboration with the ministry.
“The visit also allowed us to explore areas of collaboration with the ministry in advancing gender inclusion and sustainable development in the maritime sector,” she added.
A major highlight of the visit was the formal induction of Zibs-Godwin into the WIMAfrica Fellowship in recognition of her leadership and commitment to expanding opportunities for women in the maritime and blue economy space.
