CNS, Abbas Unveils Maiden IMION Newsletter, Emphasises Strategic Communication in Maritime Development
The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has unveiled the maiden edition of the newsletter of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), describing the publication as a strategic tool for strengthening communication and advancing institutional growth within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The CNS who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Doctrine Command (NAVDOC), Rear Admiral Bob Manuel Effiong, at the unveiling ceremony noted that the introduction of the newsletter marks a significant milestone in the institute’s development and visibility. He emphasised that the publication represents a deliberate step by IMION to enhance engagement within the maritime community and beyond.
“The introduction of this newsletter reflects IMION’s deliberate commitment to strengthening communication, fostering intellectual engagement, and documenting the strides of the Institute,” he stated.
According to the Naval Chief, the newsletter provides a structured platform for sharing ideas, showcasing achievements, and clearly communicating the institute’s vision to its members and stakeholders across the maritime industry.
He further noted that publications of this nature serve as enduring records of institutional progress, while promoting unity, transparency, and active participation among maritime stakeholders.
Vice Admiral Abbas commended the Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (rtd) alongside the editorial team, for their foresight and dedication in bringing the maiden edition to fruition.
He expressed confidence that the IMION Newsletter would go beyond providing information to serve as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and sustained excellence within the organization and Nigeria’s maritime space
Nigeria’s ocean economy was identified as a major driver of inclusive growth, employment generation and environmental sustainability by the Director General of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (rtd)
Udofia described Nigeria as being at a critical point in its maritime development journey, noting that the country’s extensive coastline, inland waterways and strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea position it to unlock significant opportunities within the blue economy.
He emphasised that sectors such as maritime trade, fisheries, offshore energy, tourism and marine biotechnology hold strong prospects for national development. According to him, “From maritime trade and fisheries to offshore energy, tourism, and marine biotechnology, the ocean economy offers a viable pathway to inclusive growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.”
The IMION Director General explained that unlocking the full potential of the blue economy requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors. He stressed the importance of collaboration among policymakers, security agencies, academia, industry players and civil society to develop policies that are economically viable, environmentally responsible and socially equitable.
Udofia noted that the Executive Programme was designed as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and strategic alignment among stakeholders. Discussions during the programme are expected to focus on policy frameworks, maritime security, environmental protection, institutional collaboration and investment opportunities within Nigeria’s coastal and marine sectors.
He outlined key learning objectives of the programme to include understanding global blue economy frameworks, analysing Nigeria’s policy structure, identifying key sectors that can contribute to Gross Domestic Product and employment, as well as evaluating risks and opportunities within the nation’s marine economy.
The IMION Director General also announced that the institute would roll out a series of specialised executive courses throughout the second, third and fourth quarters of 2026. The courses, he said, are aimed at strengthening capacity and deepening sectoral expertise across Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Among the upcoming programmes are courses on logistics and trade facilitation, climate change and coastal resilience, blue economy governance, maritime security and sustainability strategies.
Udofia expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for his continued support to the institute, as well as the institute’s Board of Trustees, governing board members and maritime stakeholders for their contributions to the programme.
He formally declared the Executive Programme on Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy open, expressing optimism that the ideas and partnerships generated during the engagement would shape Nigeria’s maritime future and strengthen the country’s position within the global ocean economy.
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