The Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has expressed worries about the escalating youth restiveness issues in Nigeria, particularly in the North East region.
During his speech at the North East Trade Fair in Bauchi on Sunday, the Director-General of the Agency, Dr Dayo Mobereola, emphasized the untapped potential of the region’s blue economy. He emphasized that leveraging this potential could help in reducing youth unemployment and enhancing security.
Dr. Mobereola emphasized the necessity of attracting more private investors to explore the economic opportunities in the North East, spanning fishing, aquaculture, logistics, transportation, and tourism.
Under the theme “Harnessing the Blue Economy Potential for Entrepreneurial Development: A Panacea for Youth Restiveness,” Dr. Mobereola highlighted the alarming youth restiveness situation in Nigeria, particularly in the North East and nationwide.
He cited acts like violence, gruesome killings, hostage-taking, and cultism as prevalent social vices in the region.
Dr. Mobereola remarked, “Youth restiveness in this area has taken various dimensions – political, religious, and economic. Unless urgently addressed, it could lead to dire consequences for Nigeria as the future generation holds the key to progress.”
“Societies thrive with educated, disciplined, and law-abiding youth. Unfortunately, in the region, fear and insecurity dominate daily life,” he added.
He emphasized the need to align entrepreneurial development with the interests of Nigerian youth and urged governments, organizations, stakeholders, and individuals to champion and bolster entrepreneurship. Engaging and empowering the youth is crucial in curbing unrest.
“The blue economy presents a distinctive opportunity to foster entrepreneurship, create wealth, and generate job prospects, thereby fostering sustainable economic growth and mitigating youth restiveness,” he concluded.
Also, Abdul Usman, the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Mining, Agriculture, and Industry, highlighted the agricultural potential in the country, urging major stakeholders to invest in this sector. He commended NIMASA for its commitment to unlocking the entrepreneurial prospects in the region.