Rivers Governor says maritime resources can unlock massive investment, trade and security gains as Nigeria pursues a $1 trillion economy

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting private sector-led economic growth and unlocking the vast potential of the blue economy, describing maritime resources as a powerful catalyst for trade, investment and national prosperity.

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The governor made the declaration on Thursday in Port Harcourt during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA).

Represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, Fubara addressed delegates from across the country at the conference themed, “The Gulf of Guinea and Blue Economy: Pathways to Trade, Investment and Security Towards a $1 Trillion Economy.”

The governor welcomed NACCIMA officials, representatives of 115 chambers of commerce, members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, investors and other stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies for expanding Nigeria’s economic opportunities through maritime development.

Fubara described the conference theme as timely and strategic, noting that countries within the Gulf of Guinea possess enormous untapped resources capable of transforming their economies if properly managed.

He commended the National President of NACCIMA, Jani Ibrahim, for selecting Rivers State as the host of the conference, saying the decision had drawn national attention to the economic prospects embedded in the blue economy.

According to the governor, the maritime sector has the potential to generate revenues that could rival or even surpass earnings from the oil and gas industry if investments, infrastructure and policy support are aligned effectively.

Fubara stressed that Nigeria must move decisively to maximise the benefits of its coastal and marine assets while protecting them from exploitation by foreign interests.

“We must wake up and hit the ground running. If we do not capitalise on and utilise our blue economy, other nations will utilise it for us,” the governor said.

He expressed concern over the activities of foreign fishing trawlers operating in Nigerian waters, arguing that many extract valuable seafood resources without creating commensurate economic benefits for the country.

The governor called for stronger monitoring systems, improved maritime security and policies that would ensure Nigeria derives greater value from its marine resources.

The blue economy encompasses economic activities linked to oceans, rivers, ports, fisheries, shipping, tourism and other marine-based industries. Experts have increasingly identified the sector as a critical driver of sustainable growth, particularly for coastal nations seeking to diversify their economies.

Fubara said the successful hosting of the conference in Port Harcourt demonstrated Rivers State’s readiness to attract investment and strengthen partnerships with the organised private sector.

He also thanked NACCIMA for bringing national attention to issues surrounding maritime security and economic development, describing the conference as an important platform for shaping future growth strategies.

Earlier, NACCIMA National President Jani Ibrahim praised the Rivers State Government for hosting the association’s 66th Annual General Conference and for the hospitality extended to delegates.

According to Ibrahim, the decision to hold the event in Rivers reflects growing confidence in the state’s business environment and investment potential.

He noted that NACCIMA remains the leading voice of Nigeria’s organised private sector and pledged continued collaboration with governments at all levels to promote economic development.

“The relationship between the Rivers State Government and the organised private sector is highly valued, and it sends a positive signal to investors and businesses across the country,” Ibrahim said.

As a secondary highlight, the conference marked a historic achievement for the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.

In her welcome address, PHCCIMA President, Chinyere Nwoga, described the gathering as a landmark moment in the chamber’s history.

Nwoga revealed that it was the first time in the chamber’s 66-year existence that it had hosted NACCIMA’s national conference, a development she described as both an honour and a significant milestone.

She commended the national leadership of NACCIMA for entrusting PHCCIMA with the hosting responsibility and reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to advancing private sector growth and sustainable economic development.

The conference comes at a time when Nigeria is intensifying efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil revenues and explore emerging sectors capable of generating employment, attracting investment and boosting exports.

With the Gulf of Guinea serving as one of Africa’s most strategically important maritime regions, stakeholders at the conference argued that strengthening maritime security, improving infrastructure and encouraging private sector participation could unlock substantial economic opportunities.

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For Rivers State, the event also provides an opportunity to showcase its strategic location, maritime assets and business potential as it seeks to attract greater investment and reinforce its position as one of Nigeria’s leading economic hubs.