BENUE STATE: Unlocking the Potential of the Marine and Blue Economy

By Tony Audu Ogwuche

Located in the North Central Region of Nigeria, Benue State is endowed with an extensive network of rivers, including the majestic River Benue, which serves as the major waterway. The state boasts a total of 13 rivers, including the Benue, Katsina-Ala, and Agatu rivers, among others.

The River Benue, which stretches for approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles), offers immense opportunities for the development of the marine and blue economy in Benue State. The river’s vast waterway provides a conduit for inland waterways transportation, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the state and beyond.

Photo Credit: Research Gate

Opportunities in the Marine and Blue Economy:

1. Inland Waterways Transportation: The River Benue and other rivers in the state offer a viable alternative to road transportation, reducing congestion and promoting economic growth.
2. Agricultural Suitability Good Health: Water supports agriculture. Proper management and treatment of Rivers will ensure improved yields of crops and better hygiene for citizens
3. Skills Development and Human Capacity Building: The marine and blue economy sector requires specialized skills, providing opportunities for training and employment in areas such as boat building, navigation, and fisheries management.
4. Administration: Effective administration of the marine and blue economy sector is crucial, requiring the establishment of regulatory frameworks, licensing, and permitting systems.
5. Security: Ensuring the security of the waterways and surrounding communities is essential, requiring collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and stakeholders.

Map of Benue State showing waterways. Photo Credit: Research Gate

Security Challenges:

1. Piracy and Armed Robbery: The risk of piracy and armed robbery on the waterways poses a significant threat to the security of passengers, crew, and cargo.
2. Kidnapping and Banditry: The prevalence of kidnapping and banditry in some parts of the state may affect the security of the waterways and surrounding communities.
3. Environmental Degradation: The degradation of the environment, including pollution and deforestation, may impact the sustainability of the marine and blue economy sector.

River Benue meets River Niger at Lokoja. This offers great partnership between Benue and Kogi States. Photo Credit: Premium Times

Other Opportunities

1. Fisheries Development: The rivers in Benue State offer opportunities for fisheries development, providing a source of protein and income for local communities.
2. Tourism: The scenic beauty of the River Benue and other rivers in the state offers opportunities for tourism development, including boat cruises and water sports.
3. Hydroelectric Power Generation: The River Benue has the potential for hydroelectric power generation, providing a clean and sustainable source of energy.
4. Collaborative Opportunities: While the Benue and Katsina Ala Rivers offer collaborative efforts in harnessesing opportunities and tackling challenges amongst Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba and Adamawa states, the Agatu River will ease transportation challenges while exploring aqua business opportunities with the environs namely; Ohimini Local Government Area to the north, Otukpo Local Government Area to the east, Okpokwu Local Government Area to the south and Apa Local Government Area to the west.

In conclusion, Benue State has immense potential for the development of the marine and blue economy, with opportunities in inland waterways transportation, skills development, administration, and security. However, addressing the security challenges and environmental degradation is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the sector.

Tony Audi Ogwoche is Director of Ekuum Global synergy Ltd, based in Makurdi.
A Human Development and IT Consultant
ekuumglobalsynergy@gmail.com
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