Developing countries must invest in technology to grow blue economy, says Dakuku Peterside

Dakuku Peterside, former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency (NIMASA), says developing a robust technology infrastructure and leveraging smart applications are the keys to growing the blue economy.

Peterside spoke at a recent one-day conference at Normal University Beijing, China.

Speaking on the future of the industry in developing countries, the former NIMASA DG said the maritime industry is a critical component of global trade and, therefore, safety should be of paramount importance to all stakeholders.

“Embracing smart applications has emerged as a powerful strategy to bolster safety measures and efficiency in the industry,” he said in a statement by his media team.

“Whether for real-time monitoring and data collection, predictive analytics, automation of navigation systems, collision avoidance systems, or emergency response and communication, smart applications represent a transformative approach to enhance safety standards in the industry.”

“More than any other region, the global south must step up its game in this regard to optimise the benefit from the blue economy.”

Peterside called on developing countries to invest in the development of robust technological infrastructure and manpower in the maritime industry.

He said technological infrastructure is critical for the growth of the blue economy.

However, the maritime expert, said it is unfortunate that most developing countries are “just content using services in the sector without investing in tailor-made technology solutions that address their peculiar challenges.”

“Developing countries can leapfrog growth in the blue economy and maritime ecosystem by upscaling application of technology in the sector,” Peterside added.

He lauded the effort of China for its great accomplishments in the blue economy space, including having eigth of the top 10 ports globally by volume and the highest number of patent applications in maritime-related technology.

Peterside said Nigeria, which is the biggest economy in Africa, has recently focused on the blue economy for economic renaissance.

He, therefore, called for investors and partners, adding that Nigeria should be “supported by all who wish Africa well’.