Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for investment in the blue economy, highlighting emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repairs, and marine technology as pathways for industrialisation in the Niger Delta. MAN made this known at the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Bayelsa/Rivers states Branch, which ended at the weekend in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
In a communique issued at the end of the AGM, the association said its members as well as the African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) had the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
In the resolutions, MAN said the future of the Niger Delta economy lied in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries.
The communique stated, “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
MAN specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers states to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth. It called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme, “Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.”
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State government under Governor Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
Okuku expressed concern over persistent challenges, such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continued to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, stated that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, held vast potential for industrial expansion. Meshioye called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
A goodwill message was delivered by Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was presented by Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, highlighting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference’s theme aligned with his administration’s agenda of “Assured Prosperity.”
Diri announced that there will be 24-hour uninterrupted power supply to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the state’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He stated that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the state, following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt.
Olusegun Samuel
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