In a bid to encourage young people, particularly students, to explore careers 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 awareness campaign across schools in Abia State.

During visits to schools in Umuahia North and Umuahia South Local Government Areas, including Ibeku High School Junior and Senior Secondary School, 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, Dr Chukwudi highlighted the enormous opportunities available in the blue economy.

She noted that the sector remains largely untapped despite its immense potential to create jobs and contribute significantly to national economic growth. According to her, it is important to introduce children to the concept of the blue economy early enough so they can consider opportunities within the sector when making future career choices.

Dr Chukwudi explained that developing interest in marine-related industries would help Nigeria better utilise its vast ocean resources, just as many developed countries have successfully done.

As part of the sensitisation exercise, she distributed free copies of her book on the blue economy to pupils, students, and teachers. She stressed that the significance of the sector cannot be overemphasised, given its growing role in global economic development.

The author, who serves as Head of Public Relations at the Abuja Zonal Office of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), also commended Governor Alex Otti for what she described as his commitment to the development of Abia State. She pointed to the governor’s efforts toward establishing a seaport in the state as evidence of his determination to strengthen the state's economic prospects.

Providing further insight into the importance of the sector, Dr Chukwudi stated that oceans cover about 70 per cent of the Earth's surface and support the livelihoods of approximately three billion people worldwide. She also noted that the Federal Government established the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023, underscoring the sector’s strategic importance to the nation's economy.

In their responses, several school heads and principals 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 (Smart School), Mrs Stella Iheanacho; the Principal of Ibeku High School Junior Secondary School, Lady Ada O. Ocho; and her senior counterpart, Elder Ekeledimgba. They thanked Dr Chukwudi for the educational outreach and the donation of books to their schools.