According to Michael Lodge, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, the sustainable development of deep seabed resources found on the continental shelf of Africa and in the international seabed region can be a major factor in the growth of the continent’s blue economy.
He mentioned this on Monday in Abuja during a press conference on the necessity of promoting Africa’s blue economy.
The event, which aims to support the strategy of Africa’s Blue economy, is jointly organized by the International Seabed Authority, National Boundary Commission, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and other pertinent Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
If managed efficiently and sustainably, the Blue economy, according to Lodge, may also contribute up to $1.5 trillion to the world economy.
“This is a huge opportunity for Africa and each African state. The oceans and seas surrounding the African continent include a wealth of natural living and non-living marine resources. This inspired a growing interest in the sustainable development of the African Blue Economy.”
