By Platform Reporters
LAGOS – The Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria, MARCON, has described the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria, IMION, as one of Nigeria’s Centres of Excellence in knowledge-driven development of the Blue Economy.
MARCON President, Mr. Ismail Aniemu, made the declaration on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, during a courtesy visit by MARCON Executive Team to IMION.
Aniemu said the visit was aimed at establishing strategic collaboration centered on maritime knowledge sharing, stakeholder engagement and initiatives to advance Nigeria’s Blue Economy.
Welcoming the delegation, Director-General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia, Rtd, Ph.D., described IMION as a strategic think-tank, research and training institution established to drive sustainable maritime growth.
Lauding IMION’s rapid progress within two years of existence, Aniemu said its alumni network already cuts across public and private sectors of maritime industry.
“I want to commend you for the growth the Institute has recorded within the two years of your existence. You are embossing your signature in the sands of time. You are indeed gifted and blessed with a very hardworking team,” Aniemu stated.
He said IMION’s problem-solving courses are relevant to the wider maritime ecosystem and will contribute to better decision-making and policy implementation.
As immediate product of the alliance, IMION has accepted MARCON’s invitation to participate in its National Conference on Sustainable Fishing scheduled for September 30, 2026, in Apapa, Lagos.
The Conference, focusing on growth pathways, food security and coastal livelihoods, will examine Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated, IUU, Fishing, Nigeria’s participation in aquatic value chain and maritime security.
Aniemu said sustainable fishing is vital component of Blue Economy and Nigeria must derive maximum value from its extensive aquatic resources.
Responding, Rear Admiral Udofia confirmed readiness to deploy IMION’s expertise at the Conference. He charged MARCON to move beyond passive reporting, to actively participate in Institute’s academic tracks, track public perceptions and amplify IMION’s strategic initiatives for high-value growth across Blue Economy.
He further urged MARCON to leverage mass media to champion values promoting Blue Economy within Nigeria and across Gulf of Guinea, noting stronger interaction will foster dissemination of critical maritime knowledge.
