LAGOS —
India’s Consul-General in Lagos, Shri Chandramouli Kern, has expressed India’s commitment to helping Nigeria unlock the full potential of its blue economy, which is valued at $296 billion. Speaking at a recent engagement in Lagos, Kern described Nigeria’s coastline as a “new gold” for economic growth, emphasizing India’s expertise in fisheries and aquaculture as vital resources for Nigerian development.
Kern proposed training programs through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) initiative to strengthen Nigeria’s marine industries, including fisheries and shrimp farming. The free ITEC courses offer Nigerian officials hands-on training with all costs, from airfare to visa processing, covered by the Indian government.
Highlighting the potential for trade, Kern noted that India-Nigeria trade volume varies between $9 billion and $15 billion, and he encouraged joint ventures between the two nations. “By sharing resources, expertise, and technology, both countries stand to benefit significantly,” he said.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, also underscored the need for modern safety technology and skill-building to meet the demands of a growing blue economy. Similarly, Haano Marine Product Limited’s GM, Sabir Ali, emphasized the economic challenges facing Nigeria’s fishing industry, from high costs and customs duties to unstable exchange rates, calling for government interventions to make the industry more competitive.
Through strategic partnerships and knowledge exchange, both countries aim to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial marine sector.
