Stakeholders Advocate for Inclusive Development of Coastal Communities

Stakeholders Advocate for Inclusive Development of Coastal Communities

By Our Correspondent

The 3rd EHINGBETI Blue Economy Hub highlighted the need for inclusive development of coastal communities, with stakeholders emphasizing the importance of engaging local communities in policy creation and implementation.

Empowering Local Communities

Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Rtd), Chairman of the 3rd Ehingbeti Blue Economy Hub, condemned policies that exclude locals from economic gains, urging urgent reforms that prioritize inclusivity and poverty alleviation. He stressed that indigenous voices must be heard in the development of the Blue Economy.

Sustainable Development

The Convener of the 3rd Ehingbeti Blue Economy Hub, Mrs. Violet Olaitan Williams, advocated for sustainable development that prioritizes the needs of coastal communities. She highlighted the importance of engaging local communities in policy creation and implementation, citing the theme of the year’s hub, “The Renaissance of Ehingbeti in Community Engagement and Inclusivity.”

Initiatives and Recommendations

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mrs. Jean Chiazor Anishere, proposed the creation of an Ehingbeti water transportation service, which would serve as a footprint for indigenous people living in coastal communities. The initiative aims to promote economic development and inclusivity in the maritime sector.

Investing in Coastal Communities

The stakeholders’ recommendations emphasize the need for government intervention to cater to the needs of people living in coastal communities. By prioritizing inclusivity and poverty alleviation, the government can unlock the potential of the Blue Economy and promote sustainable development.