IMION Concludes Advanced Course on Sustainable Blue Economy, Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Capacity Building

The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has concluded its Advanced Course on the Sustainable Blue Economy, held from December 3 to 5, 2025, with a call for deeper collaboration, enhanced maritime governance and sustained capacity-building across Nigeria’s ocean sector.

Delivering his closing remarks at the Institute, the Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd.) commended participants, facilitators and partner institutions for contributing to what he described as a highly impactful and intellectually enriching programme.

According to him, the two-day intensive course provided a platform for rigorous engagement on key dimensions of the blue economy, including ocean innovation, climate resilience, marine governance, maritime security and sustainable resource management. He noted that the sessions, case studies and discussions had broadened participants’ understanding of the opportunities and responsibilities that come with managing Nigeria’s maritime resources sustainably.

Rear Admiral Udofia praised the participants for their discipline, commitment and active involvement throughout the course, urging them to apply the knowledge gained in their respective institutions and to champion responsible stewardship within the maritime domain.

He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy, the National Defence College and other partners for their technical contributions and continued support to IMION’s capacity-building mandate. Their expertise, he said, significantly enriched the programme and strengthened IMION’s efforts to build a well-informed and skilled maritime community.

The Director General reaffirmed IMION’s commitment to promoting excellence in maritime education, enhancing interagency cooperation and expanding opportunities for professional development in support of national and regional ocean governance frameworks.

Udofia encouraged participants to sustain the networks formed during the course and remain committed to advancing Nigeria’s blue economy agenda. He also extended gratitude to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, as well as members of the Institute’s Governing Board for their support and presence.

” I trust that the insights gained here will strengthen your professional capabilities and contribute to more effective policies, actions, and collaborations within your respective institutions and organizations.

“I encourage you to integrate the knowledge acquired here into your daily work, and to continue serving as advocates for sustainable maritime development.”, he said.