Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Bayelsa State Nigeria.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Agge Deep Seaport, Targets Economic Transformation in Niger Delta

The Federal Government on Wednesday restated its commitment to the actualisation of the Agge Deep Seaport in Bayelsa State, saying the project remains a critical component of its strategy to expand Nigeria's maritime infrastructure, stimulate economic growth and unlock investment opportunities in the Niger Delta.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, gave the assurance in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday 4th June, 2026, stressing that the Agge Deep Seaport remains a key priority of the Federal Government's efforts to unlock the vast potential of Nigeria's marine and blue economy sector.

According to the Minister, the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the administration's commitment to deploying transformative infrastructure to stimulate trade, industrialisation, and sustainable economic development.

He noted that the Agge Deep Seaport is a critical component of Nigeria's maritime expansion strategy and will strengthen the country's competitiveness in regional and global trade.

"The Agge Deep Seaport project is central to our vision of expanding Nigeria's maritime infrastructure and positioning the nation as a leading maritime hub in West Africa. Beyond enhancing trade and logistics, the project will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attract investments, and stimulate economic activities across the Niger Delta and the country at large," Oyetola stated.

The Minister disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is working closely with the Bayelsa State Government and other critical stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the project within the shortest possible time.

He explained that upon completion, the deep seaport will serve as a major maritime gateway in the South-South region, ease pressure on existing ports, facilitate international trade, and unlock new opportunities across key sectors of the blue economy.

Oyetola further highlighted the immense prospects the project will create in logistics, fisheries, shipbuilding, maritime services, tourism, and other allied industries, describing the port as a catalyst for sustainable development and regional transformation.

The Minister commended the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, for his steadfast commitment to the project and for aligning the state's development agenda with the Federal Government's vision for the marine and blue economy sector.

He reiterated the Federal Government's resolve to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure the successful actualisation of the Agge Deep Seaport, noting that the project represents a major step towards unlocking the economic potential of the Niger Delta and strengthening Nigeria's maritime future.

67 HEARTY CHEERS TO MY BOSS, HIS EXCELLENCY SENATOR DOUYE DIRI, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BAYELSA STATE

On behalf of my family, the management and staff of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, I warmly congratulate my boss, Your Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State and leader of the SHARED Prosperity Administration, on this special occasion of your 67th birthday.

This is another opportunity for the peace-loving people of Bayelsa and indeed all admirers of your exemplary leadership to celebrate a statesman, a man whose life has been defined by selfless service, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of our dear state.

Through your visionary leadership, Bayelsa State has witnessed a remarkable transformation across critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, sports development, power generation, security, and economic diversification. The recent inauguration of the Bayelsa Independent Power Plant Gas Turbine Project stands as yet another testament to your administration's determination to providing sustainable energy solutions and lay a solid foundation for industrial growth and economic prosperity.

Your Excellency, of particular significance is your pioneering commitment to the development of the blue economy sector. Recognising Bayelsa's strategic location as Nigeria's foremost maritime state, your administration demonstrated unusual foresight by establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the first dedicated Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy by any sub-national government in Nigeria.

This bold and historic initiative has positioned Bayelsa as a national leader in the emerging blue economy sector and has attracted widespread recognition and commendation from stakeholders within and outside the country.

Through your support and policy direction, the state has continued to advance initiatives in sustainable fisheries, maritime transportation, coastal development, aquaculture, environmental stewardship, investment promotion, and the exploration of vast opportunities within the blue economy value chain. These efforts have earned Bayelsa several prestigious awards and recognitions, further reinforcing the state's reputation as a model for innovative governance and sustainable economic development.

These laudable achievements have not come by accident. They are products of your visionary leadership, strategic policies, and steadfast commitment to building a prosperous and globally competitive Bayelsa State. Your ability to see beyond the challenges of today and chart a clear course for the future remains one of the defining hallmarks of this administration.

As you celebrate this significant milestone of 67 years, I join millions of Bayelsans to thank Almighty God for your life, wisdom, strength, and impactful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God grant you many more years in good health, divine protection, renewed strength, and greater wisdom as you continue to steer the affairs of our beloved state towards greater heights.

Congratulations, Your Excellency, and happy 67th birthday.

Dr. (Mrs) Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin
Honourable Commissioner

Bayelsa Moves to Build Inclusive Grassroots Blue Economy Ecosystem

The Bayelsa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable and community-driven blue economy ecosystem capable of expanding livelihoods, attracting investment, strengthening coastal resilience and driving long-term economic transformation across the state.

This formed the focus of a one-day stakeholders’ engagement on the development of Bayelsa State Blue Economy Clusters, held on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Yenagoa.

Speaking at the workshop, the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mrs. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, said the engagement was designed to validate the structure and composition of Bayelsa’s grassroots blue economy clusters, while also generating practical recommendations to support the ongoing World Bank-approved cluster conceptualisation process.

She noted that the prosperity and future growth of Bayelsa is closely tied to the sustainable management and utilisation of its vast marine and coastal resources, stressing that government remains committed to policies, partnerships and investments that will improve livelihoods, stimulate enterprise development and promote inclusive economic participation across coastal communities.

The workshop, which also recorded active virtual participation from stakeholders across the state, featured technical sessions and strategic engagements on the blue economy cluster ecosystem approach, climate resilience, sustainability, investment opportunities and coastal livelihoods.

Participants identified major challenges confronting the sector, including climate-related threats affecting coastal communities amongst others.

Stakeholders were subsequently divided into five breakout groups covering Fisheries and Marine Harvesting; Aquaculture and Blue Food Systems; Women, Processing and Coastal Livelihoods; Trade, Logistics and Marine Enterprise; as well as Youth Innovation, Governance and Investment.

The groups reviewed existing sector realities, identified immediate, medium-term and long-term priority needs, and proposed investment opportunities and quick-win projects such as solar dryers, ice plants, fish processing hubs, structured landing sites, export corridors and integrated marine industrial ecosystems.

The workshop ended with the adoption of key resolutions and recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional coordination, deepening private sector participation and enhancing stakeholder collaboration towards unlocking the vast potentials of Bayelsa’s blue economy sector.

The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Madam Otrofanowei Powei, the Director PRS, Wakedei Davidson Ere, Director Technical Services, Engr. K.B. Saiyou and other management staff.

Also in attendance were representatives of the National Union of Fisherman and Seafood Dealers, United Fishers Association, Woindoubra (Koluama) Fishing Cooperative Society Ltd., Kingdom Obuza Agricultural Ventures, Jesel Enterprise Ltd., amongst others.

Bayelsa Moves to Actualise Agge Deep Seaport, Holds Inception Meeting with Transaction Advisors

In a renewed push to actualise the Agge Deep Seaport Project, the Bayelsa State Government has convened an inception meeting with the Transaction Advisors and key members of the project team, underscoring its commitment to delivering the strategic maritime asset.

The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Yenagoa, was followed by a site visit to Agge in Ekeremor Local Government Area.

The visit enabled the project team to conduct an on-the-spot assessment and gain first-hand insight into the physical and environmental context of the proposed seaport.

In her remarks, Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mrs. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, described the engagement as a critical foundation for the successful ex*****on of the project. She reiterated the Bayelsa State Government’s firm commitment to the development of the Agge Deep Seaport, noting that it remains a flagship initiative with the capacity to significantly transform the state’s economic landscape.

According to her, the project is central to the state’s blue economy drive, and the government will continue to provide the necessary institutional support, coordination, and enabling environment to ensure its timely delivery.

At the project site in Agge, the Transaction Advisor Team Lead, Tomiwa Aregbesola, said the visit was essential for preliminary observations and to enable the team properly acquaint itself with the project environment. He noted that the exercise would help to inform the planning and advisory process as the project advances into its detailed development phase.

Mr. Aregbesola expressed satisfaction with the level of groundwork already undertaken, stating that it reinforces confidence in the state government’s preparedness and commitment. He also commended the host community for its hospitality and highlighted the significant natural endowments of the area, while calling for sustained collaboration and support from relevant federal and state institutions to ensure the project’s success.

Earlier, Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Hon. Onniye Isaac, PhD, alongside the paramount ruler and his chiefs, received the delegation and assured them of the community’s full cooperation. They pledged to maintain peace and security and to provide an enabling environment for the smooth implementation of the project, while reaffirming their readiness to partner with government and investors.

The project team comprises technical consultants, environmental specialists, legal advisers, and representatives of relevant state agencies working collaboratively to drive the planning, advisory, and implementation processes of the Agge Deep Seaport Project.

Also in attendance were representatives of key government institutions, including the Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, represented by Ngozi Ayafa Esq., Head of Legal Drafting, Ministry of Justice; Preye Osukoroma, representing the Director-General of the Bayelsa State Investment Promotion Agency (BIPA); the State Surveyor-General, represented by Surveyor Clifford; and ESV Francis Mumeya, representing the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Survey. Members of the Transaction Advisory Team from Halcrow present at the meeting included Mr. Tomiwa Aregbesola (Project Lead), Prince Adegoke Oluyede (Legal Adviser), and Nina Nimi Briggs (Technical Lead).

Prioritize Waterway Safety, Commissioner Tells New Maritime Workers Union Executives

The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mrs. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, has called on the newly elected leadership of the Nigerian Maritime Workers Union, Bayelsa State Chapter, to prioritize safety, professionalism, and responsible conduct across the state’s waterways.

Dr. Zibs-Godwin gave the charge on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, while receiving members of the union’s new executive in her office in Yenagoa.

She congratulated the team, while emphasizing strict adherence to marine safety standards and operational discipline.

Dr. Zibs-Godwin noted that the protection of lives on the waterways must remain non-negotiable, stressing that only properly trained and certified boat operators should be allowed to ply the state’s rivers. She underscored that the welfare of Bayelsans who rely on water transport is a core responsibility that the union must uphold with utmost seriousness.

The Commissioner further urged the new leadership to consolidate on the achievements of the outgoing executive led by Mr. Ipigansi Ogoniba, noting that continuity and institutional strengthening are critical to advancing the marine and blue economy sector in the state. She commended the existing collaboration between the Ministry and the union, and encouraged the new executives to deepen this partnership for greater impact.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to stakeholder engagement, Dr. Zibs-Godwin assured the delegation of sustained support, adding that the Ministry remains open to strategic collaborations that will drive growth, safety, and innovation within the sector.

In his remarks, the new Chairman of the union, Comrade Ofoni Ayibanua, expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s consistent support and pledged the union’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry to enhance safety standards and promote sustainable development in the maritime sector.

The delegation, led by the immediate past Chairman, Comrade Ipigansi Ogoniba, included other members of the newly elected executive: Comrade Ebieagberi Thomas (Vice Chairman), Comrade Joshua Joshua Sambo (Secretary), Comrade Osede Imomotimi Francis (Assistant Secretary), Comrade Angel Magnus (Treasurer), Comrade Joshua Shadrack (NEC), Comrade Taram Ipigansi Ogoniba (Special Female Representative), Comrade Don Douglas E. (Financial Secretary), Comrade Nanatei Sorimo (Organizing Secretary), Comrade Inimotimi Clement Amos (Assistant Organizing Secretary), Comrade Okorowanta Godspower (Trustee), and Comrade Waribo Leite Gamdede (Auditor).

The Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mrs. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, on behalf of the Ministry, warmly felicitates with the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, his Deputy, His Excellency Dr. Pereotubo Peter Akpe, and the good people of Bayelsa State on the occasion of the one-day state visit of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The visit, marked by the commissioning of key legacy projects such as the 60MW Gas Turbine Independent Power Plant at Elebele, the Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, the dualised New Yenagoa City Link Road, and the Sagbama–Ekeremor Road, underscores the remarkable developmental strides of the Assured Prosperity Administration under Governor Douye Diri.

These strategic investments are critical enablers of sustainable growth, strengthening maritime connectivity, boosting fisheries and aquaculture, and unlocking opportunities in coastal tourism and marine-based industries across Bayelsa’s riverine communities.

The Ministry commends the Federal Government’s forward-looking reforms, particularly in the power sector, and expresses deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to national development. This visit further reinforces the synergy between federal and state governments in advancing the blue economy, economic prosperity, and sustainable development in Bayelsa State.

Long live Bayelsa State.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Global Recognition for Bayelsa as Gov Diri Honoured for Pioneering Nigeria’s First State Marine Ministry

April 08, 2026

The Bayelsa State Government has earned international recognition for its strategic push to develop the blue economy, with Governor Douye Diri honoured for pioneering reforms in the sector.

The recognition was conferred at the 3rd International Conference on Green and Safe Transport, held at the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, where the governor received an
“Appreciation of Service” award in recognition of his role in establishing Nigeria’s first subnational Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
The award, presented by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Center for Authorities and Leaders in Nigeria (CIFAL) in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), underscored Bayelsa’s innovative institutional framework designed to unlock the economic potential of its vast marine resources.

Governor Diri, who was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, described the honour as a validation of the state’s commitment to transforming its waterways into viable channels for economic growth and sustainable development.

Delivering the governor’s goodwill message, the commissioner noted that Bayelsa’s predominantly riverine terrain makes water transportation indispensable to daily life, commerce, and access to essential services.

She emphasised that government policies are deliberately structured to prioritise safety and environmental sustainability. She further explained that the Assured Prosperity Administration has adopted a holistic approach to marine transport development, integrating infrastructure, safety systems, environmental protection, and human capital development into a coordinated framework.

According to her, the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy was a deliberate and strategic intervention aimed at positioning Bayelsa as a leading maritime hub in Nigeria, rather than a symbolic initiative.
Highlighting key projects, she identified the Agge Deep Seaport as a flagship project expected to stimulate trade, attract both local and foreign investment, and generate employment opportunities across the Niger Delta region and beyond.

The commissioner disclosed that the state government is also enhancing safe mobility through the deployment of passenger boats and water buses, while exploring environmentally sustainable alternatives such as gas-powered engines and, in the long term, electric watercraft.

In line with global sustainability targets, she noted that the government is prioritising environmental protection, particularly in view of Bayelsa’s location within the ecologically sensitive mangrove belt of the Niger Delta.

Dr. Zibs-Godwin also highlighted ongoing investments in human capital development, including the training of youths in maritime-related fields, as well as strategic partnerships aimed at boosting local capacity in boatbuilding and vessel maintenance.

Additionally, she stated that the development of modern fish terminal facilities across the state would strengthen fisheries logistics, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve linkages between rural producers and urban markets.

Organisers of the conference commended Bayelsa State’s forward-looking approach, noting that its blue economy strategy aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable transport systems, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.