Prof. Funmilola O. Agbebi

Director, CBE
Email:

Program Philosophy

This Center for Blue Economy and Innovation, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology was established in 2023/2024 session. It was borne out of the need to examine the potential of the Blue Economy to drive sustained and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria and the continent of Africa. It seeks to examine ways the oceans, marine and coastal resources can support economic development, enhance healthy sustainable oceans and well-managed coastline.  The center will champion the need to maintain the delicate balance between growing economy, protecting the environment, and improving social wellbeing of Nigerians.

Objectives of the program

The Center aims at supporting the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 which is concerned with the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development and to:

• provide evidence through research and innovation to inform Nigeria and the Africa region about the possibilities of the Blue Economy for growth, job creation and sustainable use of maritime resources.
• raise awareness on the potential of the blue economy by mobilizing public and private sectors to invest in research, skills and infrastructure .
• stimulate innovation by building bridges between researchers and industry in the maritime sectors.

The Center has the following mandate:

1. Research and Development: One of the most important activities for the blue economy center is research and development. This involves identifying new opportunities, innovations and technologies related to the sustainable use of marine resources. Through research and development, new ways to promote sustainable economic growth will be ensured while protecting the ocean environment can be found.
2. Education and Training: Another key activity of the blue economy center is education and training. This involves developing and delivering training programs, workshops, and seminars for stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, NGOs, and the general public. These programs will be designed to promote awareness and understanding of the blue economy and the importance of sustainable resource use.
3. Networking and Partnership Building: It is important to build and maintain partnerships with other organizations, both locally and globally. This includes collaborating with academic institutions, industry associations, NGOs, and government agencies. By working together, we can leverage each other's strengths and expertise to achieve common goals.
4. Business Incubation and Support: The blue economy center will also serve as a business incubator, providing support and resources to entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to start or grow businesses related to the sustainable use of marine resources. This can include funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and access to resources like market research and business planning.
5. Advocacy and Policy: The center will also play a role in advocating for policies that support sustainable resource use and protect the ocean environment. This will involve working with government agencies, participating in public consultations and policy development processes, and engaging with the media to raise awareness and promote action on key issues.
6. Develop partnerships: The center will reach out to organizations and individuals who share our vision and seek collaboration opportunities.
7. Develop research programs: Encourage researchers to engage in research that addresses key challenges and opportunities within the blue economy. This will help to advance knowledge and develop solutions that can be implemented in practice.
8. Conduct training and capacity building: Develop training programs that provide skills and knowledge needed to work in the blue economy.
9. Host events: Organize seminars and conferences that bring together stakeholders in the blue economy. These events can provide opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The center will also create and deliver programs and events that promote sustainable ocean-related economic activities such as workshops on sustainable aquaculture, conferences on blue finance, and training programs for sustainable marine tourism.
10. Engage with the community: Develop outreach programs that engage with the local community and raise awareness about the importance of the blue economy. Such as educational programs, community events, and media campaigns.
11. Raise awareness: Promote the importance of sustainable ocean-related economic activities through marketing and outreach campaigns including social media campaigns, newsletters, and other communications that educate the public on the benefits of the blue economy.

Overall, the activities of the Blue Economy Centre will focus on promoting sustainable ocean-related economic activities, building partnerships, and managing resources effectively to ensure the long-term success of the centre. There are three professional programs available at the Center for Blue Economy and Innovation of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, namely:

• Masters in Disaster and Risk Management (DRM)
• Masters in Environmental Management and Control (MEM)
• Doctorate in Environmental Management (DEM)