In a bid to raise awareness among young people about career opportunities in the marine and blue economy sector, philanthropist and Abia-born author of Blue Economy: A Gateway to a Sustainable Future, Dr Chika Ethel-Chukwudi, has embarked on an educational outreach to schools across Abia State.

During visits to several schools in Umuahia North and South Local Government Areas, including Ibeku High School Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, School Road Primary School (Smart School), Urban School, Nkwuegwu Secondary School, Umukabia Central School, Ohokobe Umuohu Primary School, Okwu Community Primary School, Olokoro, Trinity Primary and Secondary School, and St Charles School, among others, Dr Chukwudi highlighted the enormous untapped potential of the blue economy.

She noted that the sector holds significant prospects for economic growth and job creation, stressing the need to expose children early to opportunities within the industry.

According to her, it is important for students to understand the concept of the blue economy and consider careers within the sector, as this would help Nigeria maximise the vast resources available in its oceans, similar to what is being achieved in many developed countries.

As part of the sensitisation campaign, Dr Chukwudi distributed copies of her book on the blue economy free of charge to students, pupils, and teachers. She emphasised that the importance of the sector cannot be overstated, given its potential contributions to sustainable development and national prosperity.

Dr Chukwudi, who serves as Head of Public Relations at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Abuja Zonal Office, also commended Governor Alex Otti for what she described as his commitment to the development of Abia State.

She pointed to the governor’s recent efforts toward establishing a seaport in the state, describing the move as a clear indication of his determination to strengthen the state's economic prospects and position it for greater growth.

Explaining the global significance of the blue economy, she stated that oceans cover about 70 per cent of the Earth's surface and support the livelihoods of roughly three billion people out of the world’s population of over eight billion. She also noted that the Federal Government established the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 in recognition of the sector’s strategic importance to national development.

In their responses, several school heads expressed appreciation for the initiative. Among them were the Principal of Nkwuegwu Secondary School, Mrs Otta Grace; the Head Teacher of School Road Primary School, popularly known as Smart School, Mrs Stella Iheanacho; the Principal of Ibeku High School Junior Secondary, Lady Ada O. Ocho; and her Senior Secondary counterpart, Elder Ekeledimgba.

They thanked Dr Chukwudi for the educational outreach and the donation of books, describing the gesture as valuable in broadening students’ knowledge and career perspectives.