Bayelsa Blue Economy: Professor Onekwu Kanayo Onuche Explains the Untapped Potential of Bayelsa State
- Deborah Francis
- 20 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Bayelsa Blue Economy is emerging as one of the most important development conversations in Nigeria’s coastal region, especially as experts continue to highlight its untapped potential beyond oil dependency. In a recent discussion on Primarald TV’s Open Insight, Professor Onekwu Kanayo Onuche provided a detailed explanation of how Bayelsa State can transform its natural endowments into sustainable economic opportunities.
Bayelsa Blue Economy and the Wider Definition of Marine Resources
The Bayelsa Blue Economy goes far beyond fishing activities. According to Professor Onuche, it represents a complex system that includes marine logistics, ecotourism, inland waterways transportation, mangrove forest resources, and sustainable coastal development. He stressed that Bayelsa State holds a strategic advantage due to its extensive coastline and interconnected waterways, making it naturally positioned for maritime-driven economic growth.
Agricultural and Aquaculture Strengths within Bayelsa Blue Economy
The Bayelsa Blue Economy also strongly connects to agriculture and aquaculture development. Professor Onuche explained that despite being widely recognized as an oil-producing state, Bayelsa has vast agricultural potential. Crops such as yam, cassava, and plantain already thrive in the region, and with proper timing, planning, and investment, the state can diversify into large-scale food production and fish farming systems that support both local consumption and export markets.
Infrastructure, Policy Gaps, and Challenges Holding Back Growth
One of the key issues limiting the full realization of the Bayelsa Blue Economy is the gap in infrastructure and policy consistency. Professor Onuche pointed out that challenges such as weak transportation systems, insecurity, and over-reliance on crude oil have slowed down sustainable development. He emphasized the need for a shift toward private-sector participation and long-term policy frameworks that outlive political administrations.
Youth Participation and Value Chain Opportunities in Bayelsa Blue Economy
The Bayelsa Blue Economy presents significant opportunities for youth engagement. Professor Onuche highlighted that young people and civil servants can actively participate in different parts of the value chain, including processing, storage, logistics, boat construction, and distribution. He noted that government’s role should primarily be as a facilitator, creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive rather than directly controlling them.
Policy Recommendations for a Sustainable Future
Professor Onuche proposed three major policy directions to unlock the Bayelsa Blue Economy: first, government should focus on facilitation rather than direct business involvement; second, experts should be engaged to properly evaluate and monetize carbon credits from Bayelsa’s mangrove forests; and third, policies must be institutionalized to ensure continuity regardless of changes in leadership.
By Deborah O.D Igberi
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