In a proactive attempt to woo foreign investors to appreciate the vast potential of the Bayelsa State blue economy, the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mrs. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, has said that the Agge Deep-Sea Port, and proposed Fish Cities will be gateways to international trade and shared prosperity of not only Bayelsa State but also for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Zibs-Godwin said this in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Saturday, where she is attending the ongoing 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).
Dr. Zibs-Godwin attended the conference along with the Bayelsa delegation led by the Chairman, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali. Other members of the delegation include the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ben Ololo, Technical Adviser to the Governor on International Relations Mrs. Funkazi Koroye, Chairman House Committee on Environment,
Hon. Living Mitin, Officer Covering the Duties of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Wakedei Davison Ere, and the Director General, Bayelsa Investment Promotion Agency, Patience Ranami Abah.
The COP29 conference which began on November 11, 2024, is a pivotal opportunity to accelerate action to tackle climate crisis. With global temperatures hitting record highs and extreme weather events affecting people around the globe, COP29 brings together leaders from governments, businesses, and civil society to advance concrete solutions to defining issues of our time.
In her presentation, Dr. Zibs-Godwin used the opportunity of this global platform to highlight the vast potential Bayelsa holds in the advancement of the Marine and Blue Economy, positioning it as a prime destination for investment opportunities and partnerships with immense economic potential.
She reiterated Bayelsa State’s commitment to building a thriving Blue Economy that harnesses its natural resources for sustainable economic growth, adding that Bayelsa's Blue Economy represents not just a vision but a strategic framework for achieving inclusive and resilient development.
The Commissioner for Marine and Blue explained that two key projects epitomize Bayelsa’s Blue Economy strategy: the development of the Agge Deep Seaport and Fish Cities. These projects, according to her, are designed to attract investments, stimulate economic activity, and create sustainable livelihoods. She argued that the Agge Deep Seaport is envisioned as a major logistical and trade hub for not only Bayelsa State but also the entire Niger Delta and West African region.
"This deep-sea port will enhance connectivity to international markets, catalyze trade, and establish Bayelsa as a strategic logistics center. It represents an opportunity for investors to participate in a forward-looking, sustainable infrastructure project with significant economic returns.
The Fish Cities initiative is aimed at promoting sustainable aquaculture and coastal tourism. Through Fish Cities, Bayelsa is building self-sustaining coastal hubs that combine modern aquaculture with renewable energy, climate-smart practices, and local economic development. This project secures food systems and provides substantial employment opportunities for the youth and communities, addressing both economic and social needs", she said.
In conclusion, Dr. Zibs-Godwin extended an invitation to partners and investors to join Bayelsa State in building a resilient and prosperous future. She stressed that this vision will not be realized by government action alone but through the collaboration of private investors, international partners, and local communities. She affirmed Bayelsa State’s readiness to unlock the vast economic potential of its Marine and Blue Economy, contributing to a model of sustainable development that resonates globally.
The conference which will end on November 22, 2024, is expected to be a key moment for countries to present their updated national climate action plans under the Paris agreement, which are due by early 2025. If done right, these plans would limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and double as investment plans advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
