MAN Pushes Blue Economy Investment As Diri Promises 24-hour Power In Bayelsa For Manufacturers

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged increased investment in the blue economy to drive industrialisation in the Niger Delta, identifying opportunities in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repairs, and marine technology. The call was made at the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch, which concluded at the weekend in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

In a communique issued at the end of the AGM, MAN and the African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) affirmed their capacity to develop the blue economy sustainably but stressed the need for improved infrastructure, including transportation networks and power supply, to support growth in the region.

The communique, signed by Vincent Okuku, Michael Nosa Agana, and Chibuzor Eze, emphasised that the future of the Niger Delta economy depended on diversification beyond extractive industries. It noted that technology, innovation, value addition, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce were central to advancing manufacturing.

The association urged governments in the region to intensify support for industrial activities and promote collaboration across sectors. It also advised Bayelsa and Rivers states to harness their strategic positions by developing the blue economy and forming cross-border partnerships to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.

This year’s AGM held outside Port Harcourt for the first time was hosted by the 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, branch chairman Okuku commended the Bayelsa government under Governor Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development and collaboration with the private sector. He also acknowledged the Rivers State government’s progress in rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving road access, and delivering key infrastructure.

He, however, expressed concerns over persistent challenges confronting manufacturers, including high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxation, inconsistent regulations, and pressures from host communities.

MAN President, Francis Meshioye, said the Niger Delta’s resources and location positioned it for significant industrial expansion. He called for policy measures that promote local production, boost trade, and attract investment to the region.

Goodwill messages were delivered by officials of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and the Bayelsa State Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment.

In his remarks, Governor Diri praised MAN for its contributions to national development, noting that its resilience and innovation aligned with his administration’s “Assured Prosperity” agenda. He announced that manufacturers relocating to Bayelsa would enjoy 24-hour uninterrupted power supply and highlighted the state’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, security, and human capital to position it as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Diri added that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-standing aspiration of the state, following the successful 2024 edition held in Port Harcourt.