Cross River State has opened a new chapter in its economic journey with the launch of a World Bank-supported upskilling programme aimed at preparing its citizens for the fast-growing maritime industry. Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, unveiled the initiative at the State Library Complex in Calabar, describing it as a turning point for young people who will now gain the modern technical abilities needed to harness the state’s vast marine wealth.
The governor said Cross River’s long coastline and rich aquatic assets place it among the most strategically positioned states in Nigeria’s quest to build a competitive blue economy. He noted that the national maritime and marine sector contributed more than ₦113 trillion to the GDP in the third quarter of 2025, while NIMASA projections show that Nigeria’s blue economy potential could rise beyond 296 billion dollars. He said the state has no intention of watching from the sidelines when such opportunities exist.
Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Bakassi Deep Seaport, revealing that 3.5 billion dollars has already been secured for the project and that the state is awaiting presidential approval before construction begins. He pledged continued partnership with the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to ensure that Cross River’s ports, waterways, fisheries and logistics systems are built into effective engines of economic growth.
The opening ceremony drew officials from federal agencies, the World Bank, the University of Calabar and key industry stakeholders. The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Professor Busayo Fakinlede, said Cross River remains a natural leader in the sector because of its biodiversity and heavy fisheries output. He added that the programme fits directly into President Bola Tinubu’s priorities on food security, youth development and economic diversification.
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World Bank Team Lead Morales Yolanda said the institution is ready to provide funding, expertise and partnerships to support the initiative. A technical session led by Professor Francis Nwosu of the University of Calabar offered an in-depth look at the state’s ecological strengths and how they can be turned into long-term economic advantage.
The governor’s aide on Blue Economy, Melodie Lebo, said the training is designed to arm participants with practical, internationally recognised skills in shipping, logistics, fisheries, aquaculture, port operations, climate resilience and coastal tourism. She said that graduates will be well-positioned for jobs, internships and collaborations with global partners.
Lebo noted that this is only the first stage of a larger programme that will expand capacity across the state. She said Cross River’s partnership with the World Bank and the federal government marks the beginning of a coordinated push to build a globally competitive blue economy anchored in sustainability and youth empowerment.
