INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Emerging Technologies, Education and Skill Development for A

Sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria.

Akaninyene Edet, Ekong ^a, Babatunde Michael, Ogunbanwo ^b, Esang Lazarus, Esitikot ^a, and Gerald

Ndubuisi Okeke ^a

^aHighstone Global University, Texas, USA.

^bCentre for Occupational Health, Safety and Environment, Institute of Petroleum Studies, University of

Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1412000002

Received: 10 December 2025; Accepted: 15 December 2025; Published: 24 December 2025

ABSTRACT

The paper examined the role of emerging technologies for sustainable blue economy and assessed the level of

knowledge and skill development among stakeholders in Nigeria. Emerging technologies in the blue economy

were highlighted as remote sensing & satellite monitoring, offshore renewable energy, marine biotechnology,

artificial intelligence & big data and marine robotics. Educational needs include interdisciplinary marine studies,

vocational training, online and modular courses, and collaborative programs and partnerships among

universities, research institutes, and other organizations. Skills needed include marine robotics, data analytics,

AI for ocean modelling, marine ecology, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and international

maritime law. This paper utilised a field survey and literature on policy analysis. It revealed that the incorporation

of advanced technologies is limited, and vocational training and education are inadequate. The implementation

of inclusive programs emphasises the importance of collaboration amongst stakeholders, including communities,

government, industry, and academic institutions. It concluded with recommendations for enhancing technology

and models to promote a robust, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy in Nigeria.

Keywords: Blue Economy, Technologies, Education, Skills, Sustainability.

INTRODUCTION

European Commission (2022) has long acknowledged the Blue economy (BE) as the collection of all ocean-

related economic activity as a primary force behind European expansion, owing to the creation of new

capabilities and initiatives that permit the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources. As this notion continues

to evolve, it raises issues on how we manage and utilize materials, both new and existing (Martinez-Vázquez et

al, 2021). Coastal tourism, oil, gas, and mining, ports and warehousing, fisheries and aquaculture, and new large-

scale industries with a higher level of technological intensity, like marine biotechnology, marine defence, and

some renewable energy sources, are some of the industries associated with the BE (European Commission, 2019;

Rayner et al., 2019).

The BE's irresponsible growth can harm society and the environment, cause inequity and irreversibly altering

natural resources (Bennett et al. 2021). According to Lee et al. (2020), the conflict between sustainability and

economic returns that emerges in the BE is caused by the divergent choices and interests of the many

stakeholders regarding environmental preservation against profitability.

Its sustainable growth and the

livelihood of coastal populations are threatened by a combination of overfishing, pollution, coastal development,

and climate change (Nabi and Hayat, 2025). Fish populations decline due to overfishing, affecting both the

environment and the economy. Marine life and ecosystems suffer from petroleum spills, plastic Waste, and

agricultural pesticides. Urban expansion and coastal development damage vital habitats like mangroves,

seagrasses, and salt marshes. Issues such as ocean acidification, global warming, and lack of ocean awareness

further threaten these systems (Narwal et al., 2024). Nigeria stands at a crucial point in harnessing its extensive

coastline, rich marine biodiversity, and maritime resources, as the global focus on ocean-based industries grows.

www.ijltemas.in

Page 8

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

According to Johnson et al. (2023), robotics is the combination of mechanical and artificial intelligence systems

to carry out intricate tasks, including risk assessment and financial decision-making. These devices are

frequently designed to carry out repetitive, hazardous, or impossible-for-human jobs. In order to develop

systems that can function independently or partially autonomously, robotics integrates aspects of computer

science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajibade et al., 2025).

Today, most ocean exploration is done by robots, and marine robotics technology is developing at an astounding

rate (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, 2020). Such technology can have long-term

beneficial effects on businesses' competitiveness and, consequently, the industry as a whole once it is put into

practice (Walsh, 2021). Data from fisheries fleet monitoring, new remote sensing technologies, unmanned

aircraft systems, citizen science data, and shipping vessel tracking systems, including automation identification

systems and vessel monitoring systems, are among the other technologies utilised for this purpose (Barkai &

Flanagan, 2014). According to Zaeri (2025), artificial intelligence can support the BE's sustainability. According

to Burgess et al. (2018), technology also allow actors to adapt their conduct to the new institutional context.

New technologies have the potential to lower emissions and the environmental impact of the BE in addition to

improving data collecting. According to Ajibade et al. (2025), the BE's conventional industries actually produce

the most pollution within the sector. Similar to this, the European Commission (2022) pointed out that funding

surveillance and monitoring initiatives for the benefit of marine ecosystems is a crucial technological

development that would be advantageous across the BE spectrum. According to Nwakoby et al. (2025), satellite

tracking systems can keep an eye on fishing operations, guaranteeing correct reporting and adherence. Records

of marine transactions can be made transparent and impenetrable through the application of blockchain

technology (Nwakoby et al., 2025).

In their academic study, Aantjes et al. (2022) pointed out that capacity building entails giving individuals the

information, abilities, resources, and tools they need to recognise and seize opportunities and challenges. This

method acknowledges that advancement and sustainable development are only possible when people and

organisations are prepared to propel their own development and change. Given that the digital transformation

of the BE is a continuous process in all sectors and that it is essential for workers in this sector to be able to work

with digital tools, training is essential for providing continuity to the knowledge in the BE (Walsh, 2021).

Knowledge-intensive industries are essential to achieving a sustainable BE, and research and development

(R&D) is a major factor in the intellectual and technical advancement of some industries (Rayner et al., 2019).

Unlocking the potential of research and innovation to create novel ocean sustainability solutions is necessary to

achieve a sustainable BE (Pace et al., 2023; Melo et al., 2022). However, the sustainable management,

exploration, and mainstream integration of marine resources are hampered by a lack of knowledge about the use

of marine technologies, a shortage of skilled workers, inadequate data infrastructure, regulatory uncertainty, and

antiquated port facilities (Adeoye et al., 2023; Ajibade et al., 2025; Aladejana et al., 2024). In addition to

maximising the economic potential of Nigeria's coastal and maritime regions, addressing these problems will

help achieve the Millennium Development Goals of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger through job

creation, environmental preservation, and the formation of international development partnerships (Aladejare,

2023). In light of this assumption, the current study evaluates the degree of knowledge and skill development

among Nigerian stakeholders and investigates the significance of new technologies for a sustainable BE.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Blue Economy (BE) Regulations

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a group of 17 objectives intended to alleviate poverty and build a

sustainable world, were a focal point of the 2030 Agenda. All nations are subject to the Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs) (United Nations, 2025). A healthy and sustainable use of marine resources that preserves the

ecology and fosters economic growth is required under Goal 14—Life Below Water (Michael & Morgan, 2022).

Global policies pertaining to resource management and ocean governance have been influenced by this concept.

According to their economic and environmental interests, several countries have now created unique definitions

and implementation methods for the BE (Nabi and Hayat, 2025). To monitor and guarantee progress towards

BE objectives, Canada and Australia have implemented legal frameworks and set up multi-tiered institutional

structures at the federal and state levels (Srivastava, 2025). The BE idea is included into Kenya's national

www.ijltemas.in

Page 9

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

development plans. The growth of the BE is a strategic goal of Kenya's Vision 2030, with an emphasis on

sustainable tourism, maritime transportation, and fishing. In order to support sustainable development and

progress in the country, the government has also put laws in place to improve marine conservation and encourage

investment in marine-based sectors (Kenya Vision 2030).

According to Nammah and Ezenyimulu (2025), the federal government of Nigeria has the power to enact laws

and control operations inside its continental shelf, contiguous zone, territorial seas, and Exclusive Economic

Zone (EEZ). Furthermore, the legal basis for levying taxes and levies on activities pertaining to marine resources

is provided by sector-specific laws as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act

2007, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, and the Sea Fisheries Act 1992. Section 20 of the Federal Republic

of Nigeria 1999 Constitution is the cornerstone of all laws pertaining to the preservation of Nigeria's maritime

environment. As per Gbadegesin and Akintola (2021), the clause stipulates that "the State shall protect and

improve the environment and safeguard the water, air, land, forest, and wildlife of Nigeria." The federal

government's first duty is to safeguard and enhance the environment, since this clause serves as the foundation

for all other environmental protection legislation in Nigeria. The Water Resources Act's provisions give the

government the ability to create comprehensive strategies for the sustainable development and management of

the nation's BE resources. Oil discharge into Nigeria's navigable waters is forbidden by the Oil in Navigable

Waters Act. According to the Act's Sections 1, 3, and 5, it is illegal to release any oil or oil-containing

combination into Nigeria's navigable waterways without first paying a fine (Gbadegesin and Akintola, 2021).

By controlling the issuance of licenses for the construction and upkeep of oil pipelines, the Oil Pipelines Act 62

also protects damage of the maritime environment. The Act aims to prevent oil pipelines from polluting lands

and rivers by standardising the procedures (Elisha, 2019). President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's creation of the Federal

Ministry of Marine and BE is a calculated move to maximise and utilise this potential (Agunsoye et al., 2025).

Nigeria, however, lacks comprehensive frameworks and regulations that are expressly designed for the BE. The

successful use of the nation's maritime resources is hampered by the lack of a comprehensive and coordinated

strategy, despite some attempts to design policies, such as the National Policy on coordinated Maritime Strategy

(Sule, 2021). To direct sustainable development in Nigeria's coastal and marine regions, a strategic plan that

covers every facet of the BE including fisheries, maritime transportation, aquaculture, tourism, and renewable

energy is required (Patrick et al., 2022). The public and commercial sectors must work together to address these

issues, establishing quantifiable objectives and benchmarks, efficient BE policy frameworks and structures, and

sustainable practices that guarantee economic expansion (Benzaken, 2022).

METHODOLOGY

The study employed a survey using descriptive research design. The methodical procedure combined primary

data collected through a structured questionnaire with secondary data from relevant literature and policy

documents. Utilising a structured questionnaire, 189 respondents were sampled which consist of professionals

of the maritime industry, policy makers, universities, Non-profit organisations, research institutes and

representative from coastal communities. Through purposive sampling approach participants were selected. The

close ended questionnaire was developed using 5 point Likert scales. Descriptive statistics such as percentages,

frequencies, percentage, median, standard deviation, maximum and minimum values were adopted. Responses

on the Likert scale were coded with figures Strongly Agree as 5 and Strongly disagree as 1. Participation was

voluntary and respondents gave their informed consent. To ensure confidentiality, participants identities were

not disclosed and participants were allowed to withdraw at any point if they feel uncomfortable to continue.

www.ijltemas.in

Page 10

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Results and Data Analysis

Socio-demographic Information

Table 1 Showing the sociodemographic characteristics of respondents.

Variables

Frequency (F)

Percentage (%)

Sample valid responses (N) = 189(100%).

Sex

Male

Female

100

89

52.8

47.2

Age group

Below 25years

25 – 34years

30

45

70

14

30

15.8

23.9

37.0

7.5

35 – 44years

45 – 54years

55years and above

Current role

15.8

Academic or Researcher

Industry professional

Development worker

Student

35

30

34

40

25

18.6

15.8

18.2

21.1

13.1

13.2

Member of community

Government affiliate

Number of years in Marine or BE

sector

Under 1year

25

100

25

0

13.3

52.8

13.2

0.0

Between 1 to 5years

Between 6 to 10years

More than 10years

Table 1 shows the sociodemographic characteristics of respondents. It demonstrates that the majority of the

respondents, 100(52.8%), were male. The group with the highest distribution, 70(37.0%), are those between the

www.ijltemas.in

Page 11

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

ages of 35 – 44years old. The majority of the respondents, 40(21.1%), were students. The highest distribution of

the respondents, 100(52.8%), has between 1 and 5 5years of experience in the Marine or BE sector.

Knowledge of and Utilisation of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE

Table 2 Showing responses on knowledge of and Utilisation of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE [(N)

= 189].

Statement

Strongly

disagree

Disagree

10(5.3)

12(6.3)

Neutral

34(18.0)

40(21.2)

Agree

Strongly

agree

Mode

Agree

I have knowledge of what

the BE is.

5(2.6)

8(4.2)

82(43.4)

75(39.7)

58(30.7)

54(28.6)

I am familiar with remote

sensing

monitoring

and

in

satellite

maritime

environments.

I

understand

how

the

uses

6(3.2)

20(10.6)

10(5.3)

4(2.1)

15(7.9)

25(13.2)

22(11.6)

10(5.3)

51(26.9)

60(31.7)

57(30.2)

35(18.5)

69(36.5)

50(26.5)

60(31.7)

80(42.3)

48(25.4)

34(18.0)

40(21.2)

60(31.7)

Agree

Neutral

Agree

maritime industry

offshore renewable energy.

I have made use of or

participated

biotechnology projects.

in

marine

I am aware of how artificial

intelligence and big data are

used in maritime modelling.

Marine robots are a relevant

and useful technology for the

sustainable use of ocean

resources.

Table 2 shows responses on knowledge of and utilisation of emerging technologies for the sustainable BE. It

demonstrates that the majority of the respondents, 82(43.4%), agree that they know what the BE is. Highest

distribution of the respondents, 75(39.7$) agree that they are familiar with remote sensing and satellite

monitoring in maritime environments. The majority of the respondents, 69(36.5%), agree to understand how the

maritime industry uses offshore renewable energy. The highest distribution of the respondents, 60(31.7%),

neither agree nor disagree with making use of or participating in marine biotechnology projects. The majority of

the respondents, 60(31.7%), agree that they are aware of how artificial intelligence and big data are used in

maritime modelling. The majority of the respondents, 80(42.3%), agree that marine robots are a relevant and

useful technology for ocean resources.

www.ijltemas.in

Page 12

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Education and Skill Development

Table 3 Showing responses on education and skill development of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE

[(N) = 189].

Variables

Frequency (F)

Percentage (%)

Which of the following abilities do you currently

have?

Marine Robotics

28

36

24

52

47

33

49

14.8

19.0

12.7

27.5

24.9

17.5

25.9

Big Data & Data Analytics

Artificial Intelligence for Ocean Modelling

Marine Ecology Planning for Climate

Resilience Conservation of Biodiversity

Understanding of International Maritime Law

None of the above

In the last five years, what training or educational

opportunities have you taken advantage of?

Multidisciplinary marine studies (such as marine

science, policy, and technology)

54

28.6

Vocational training in marine-related fields

BE-related online or modular courses

42

61

36

22.2

32.3

19.0

Cooperative training initiatives with businesses and

academic institutions

Conferences or seminars on cutting-edge ocean

technologies

39

59

20.6

31.2

None of the above

Which of the following formats would best help

you develop your abilities?

Short-term vocational training

83

78

89

46

64

43.9

41.3

47.1

24.3

33.9

Online certificate programs

Fieldwork or industry internships

Graduate/postgraduate degree programs

Multidisciplinary workshops with global specialists

www.ijltemas.in

Page 13

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Professional guidance from seasoned experts

57

30.2

Table 3 Shows responses on education and skill development of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE. It

demonstrates that most of the respondents, 49(25.9%) do not have any ability in Marine Robotics, Big Data &

Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence for Ocean Modelling, Marine Ecology Planning for Climate etc. Most of

the respondents, 61(32.3%) have taken advantage in training or educational opportunities in the last years on

BE-related online or modular courses. Most of the respondents, 89(47.1%) believe that Fieldwork or industry

internships will best help in developing their abilities in emerging technologies in BE.

Cooperation and Institutional Support

Table 4 Showing responses on Cooperation and Institutional Support [(N) = 189].

Statement

Strongly

disagree

Disagree

Neutral

Agree

Strongly

agree

Mode

Universities

and

36(19.0)

29(15.3)

58(30.7)

48(25.4)

35(18.5)

12(6.3)

Disagree

industries in Nigeria's

maritime sector work

closely together.

The incorporation of new

technologies into the BE

62(32.8)

52(27.5)

33(17.5)

13(6.9)

Disagree

Neutral

is

encouraged

by

government policies.

Planning and training for

the BE actively involve

community stakeholders.

21(15.3)

6(3.2)

49(25.9)

8(4.2)

60(31.7)

22(11.6)

38(20.1)

71(37.6)

21(11.1)

82(43.4)

To

technology innovation in

Nigeria, public-private

partnerships are required.

promote

marine

Strongly

agree

Table 4 shows responses on Cooperation and Institutional Support. It demonstrates that most of the respondents,

58(30.7%) disagree that universities and industries in Nigeria’s maritime sector work closely together in aspect

of sustainable BE. Also, many of the respondents, 62(32.8%) disagree that the incorporation of new technologies

into the BE is encouraged by government policies. Meanwhile, most of the respondents, 60(31.7%) neither agree

nor disagree that planning and training for the BE actively involve community stakeholders. Lastly, the majority

of the respondents, 82(43.4%) strongly agree that to promote marine technology innovation in Nigeria, public-

private partnerships are required.

Table 5 Showing responses on education and skill development of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE

[(N) = 189].

Variables

Frequency (F)

Percentage (%)

Which parties ought to be most involved in advancing

cutting-edge technologies in the BE?

Universities

96

50.8

58.2

Research Institutions

110

www.ijltemas.in

Page 14

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Private Technology Companies,

88

46.5

27.6

40.6

33.4

72.5

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

International Development Partners

Coastal Communities

52

77

63

The Federal Government, State or Local Governments

137

Table 5 shows responses on education and skill development of Emerging Technologies for sustainable BE. It

demonstrates that the majority of the respondents, 137(72.5%) believe that the federal, state and local

governments ought to be the most involved in advancing cutting-edge technologies in the BE.

Table 6 Showing responses on probable obstacles and recommendation on Emerging Technologies for

sustainable BE [(N) = 189].

Variables

Frequency (F)

Percentage (%)

Which three obstacles stand in the way of integrating

emerging technologies into Nigeria's BE?

Poor infrastructure

122

116

103

111

89

64.5

61.5

54.4

58.8

47.2

40.1

Insufficiently skilled staff

Inadequate policy structure

Limited resources and investment

Low public participation or awareness

Stakeholders' poor cooperation

76

What ought to be given top priority in order to enhance skill

development in this area?

Centres for national marine training

102

117

87

Government-funded educational initiatives

International exchange and fellowship initiatives

Secondary and postsecondary schools' marine curricula

Local content creation and e-learning platforms

61.9

46.1

41.3

49.7

78

94

Table 6 showing responses on probable obstacles and recommendation on Emerging Technologies for

sustainable BE. It demonstrates that the majority of the 122(64.5%), 116(61.5%) and 111(58.8%) identified poor

infrastructure, Insufficient skilled staff and limited investment and resources respectively as the obstacles

standing in the way of integrating emerging technologies into Nigeria’s BE.

www.ijltemas.in

Page 15

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Data Analysis

Table 7 Showing descriptive statistics of knowledge of and utilisation of Emerging Technologies for sustainable

BE

Category

Mean

S. D

Minimum

Maximum

Interpretation

34

36.1

22

61

There are low levels of

developed skills. Technical

skill is more common in the

aspect of ecology-based

knowledge and far less in

AI & Robotics.

Skill development and

Education

48.2

65.4

88.2

48

67

88

36

45

52

72

There is an inadequate

training. Although, there is

Access to training

limited access to

modular

both

and

multidisciplinary studies.

88

The preferred training are

practical, applied learning

Preferred

method

training

such

internship

as

vocational,

and online

format of learning.

137

There is general agreement

that the government must

serve as the pivotal force.

Role of stakeholders

The

universities

and

research institutes are to

also have important roles to

play.

92.7

97

76

122

Infrastructure and limited

workforce are considered

key challenges.

Challenges

www.ijltemas.in

Page 17

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

95.5

92

78

117

Investment

government

from

and

Recommendations

construction of national

training centers are

identified as priorities.

S.D – Standard Deviation

Table 9 shows the descriptive statistics for the stated categories. It demonstrates that there are low levels of

developed skills. The technical skill is more common in the aspect of ecology-based knowledge and far less in

AI & Robotics. There is an inadequate training. Although, there is limited access to both modular and

multidisciplinary studies. The preferred training is practical, applied learning such as vocational, internship and

online format of learning. There is general agreement that the government must serve as the pivotal force. The

universities and research institutes are to also have important roles to play. Infrastructure and limited workforce

are considered key challenges. Investment from government and construction of national training centres are

identified as priorities.

RESULT DISCUSSION

The study revealed that there is high knowledge among stakeholders on emerging BE technologies; Stakeholders

are moderately familiar with remote sensing and satellite monitoring and there’s common knowledge about the

utilisation of offshore renewable energy. However, there is dearth of studies to backup these findings. Offshore

wind and wave energy projects have a lot of promise in coastal locations, which fits nicely with the worldwide

trend towards renewable energy and can help meet sustainable energy goals (Elegbede et al., 2023).

The present study also revealed that there is limited practical experience on marine biotechnology utilisation.

According to Elegbede et al. (2023), the use of marine biotechnology in Nigeria is still relatively new. However,

it has the potential to contribute significantly to the economy (Federal Ministry of Science and Technology,

2020). Research and development finance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of investment are some of the

challenges facing the sector (Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, 2020). However, there is room for

sustainable growth via the use of new technology, sustainable practices, and the development of new marine-

based products and services (Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, 2020).

The present study also revealed that there is moderate knowledge of AI and Big data usage. The potential of

artificial intelligence to improve risk management engineering was highly supported by Ajibade et al. (2025).

Subsequent investigation revealed that artificial intelligence significantly improved risk management results.

Additionally, risk-related workflows like internal audits, insurance claims, and regulatory reporting may be

streamlined by AI-powered robotic process automation (RPA), which lowers the possibility of human mistake

and delays (Ibrahim et al., 2023). The present study also revealed that there is strong acknowledgment of marine

robotics. However, another crucial distinction of the BE is its emphasis on the necessity of stakeholder

participation and collaboration in the sustainable management of ocean resources. The present study found no

consistent collaboration between tertiary institutions and Nigeria maritime sector. Furthermore, because the BE

is a global issue that affects all countries and regions, its sustainable growth necessitates international

cooperation and collaboration (Elegbede et al, 2023). All parties involved—governments, businesses, civil

society, and local communities—should be required to participate.

The present study also revealed that there is inadequate policy support. This result is consistent with that of

Nweke and Dhakir (2025), who found that the BE in Nigeria is still relatively young and does not have sufficient

regulatory and policy frameworks. The potential of the BE is limited in the absence of strong rules and strategic

policy frameworks, which are necessary to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable development

(Otuya-Asohro, 2024). The present study revealed that there is rather limited inclusion of the involved

community stakeholders. This is in line with this finding, Esin et al. (2024), BE ideas are not yet influenced by

local development goals or explicitly in line with Agenda 2030. Fudge et al (2023) revealed that community’s

interest and relationship experience with marine environment is more essential than material aspect. Coastal

www.ijltemas.in

Page 18

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

towns also confront the obstacles associated with a BE, thus their perspectives can enhance the general strategies

used to ensure a sustainable BE, even though jobs can be produced for areas around a BE.

The present study revealed there is need for private partnership on marine technology innovation. similarly,

(Ibrahim, 2018) revealed that partnerships with international organisations and surrounding nations may open

up important finance, technical know-how, wider market access, support innovation, foster economic growth,

and advance sustainable development in marine businesses, guaranteeing the BE's long-term viability. The

present study also revealed there are low levels of developed skills. Technical skill is more common in the aspect

of ecology-based knowledge and far less in AI & Robotics. This is not consistent with Nweke and Dhakir (2025),

who claim that the successful growth of important marine businesses like shipbuilding, offshore energy, and

sustainable fishing is significantly hampered by a shortage of competent workers. These sectors' capacity to

create jobs, encourage innovation, and support the expansion of Nigeria's BE is diminished in the lack of a skilled

labour force, which also limits their development and productivity (Bayode, 2024).

It also revealed that there is an inadequate training. Although, there is limited access to both modular and

multidisciplinary studies. This conclusion is supported by research by Mkpandiok and Ukpai (2017), which

showed that academic staff and cadets/students are unaware of the SDGs and that the curriculum for maritime

education and training is still not fully in accordance with them. Generally, the present study revealed the

preferred training is practical, applied learning such as vocational, internship and online format of learning.

Additionally, BE curricula should be institutionalized across tertiary institutions, and support provided for

community-based data collection and documentation of traditional ecological knowledge. There is general

agreement that the government must serve as the pivotal force. The universities and research institutes are to

also have important roles to play. Infrastructure and limited workforce are considered key challenges. Likewise,

Tonye (2025) pointed out that one of the main obstacles is the absence of a strong operational infrastructure. A

safe maritime environment is necessary to combat factors like armed piracy, oil theft, infrastructure vandalism,

illicit fishing, and aqua cultural activities that deter investment and undermine the BE. More so, investment from

government and construction of national training centers are identified as priorities.

Further studies

Further studies should be conducted to identify the level of knowledge among stakeholders of BE in Nigeria;

Stakeholders familiarity with remote sensing and satellite monitoring and utilisation of offshore renewable

energy.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

A safe maritime environment is necessary to combat factors such as armed piracy, oil theft, infrastructure

vandalism, illicit fishing, and aquaculture activities that deter investment and undermine the BE. Moreover,

government investment and the construction of national training centres are identified as priorities.

Practical training should be provided to relevant stakeholders in marine robotics, data analytics, AI for ocean

modelling, and marine ecology. A government-funded educational initiative is relevant to providing stakeholders

with opportunities to improve their skills and contribute to achieving a sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria.

REFERENCES

1. Aantjes, C. J., Burrows, D. and Armstrong, R. (2022). Capacity development in pursuit of social change:

2. Ajibade, A.T., Akintoye, I.R. and Ajah, C.C. (2025). Artificial Intelligence on Risk Management

Engineering in Non-financial Service Companies Listed in Nigeria. International Journal of Economics,

Business and Management Research, 9 (05) https://doi.org/10.51505/IJEBMR.2025.9531

3. Barkai, A. and Lallemand, P. (2014). E-logbook Technology Development in South Africa. Marine and

Maritime Sectors, in: Funke, N., Claassen, M., Meissner, R., & Nortje, K. (Ed.). Reflections on the state

of research and technology in South Africa’s marine and maritime sectors. The Council for Scientific and

www.ijltemas.in

Page 19

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025

Industrial Research. Pretoria, SouthAfrica: The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Pretoria,

South Africa.

4. Burgess, M. G., Clemence, M., McDermott, G.R., Costello, C. and Gaines, S. D. (2018). Five rules for

pragmatic blue growth. Marine Policy, 87,331-339.

5. Elegbede, I. O., Akintola, S. L., Jimoh, A. A. A., Jolaosho, T. L., Smith-Godfrey, S., Oliveira, A. and

Oloko, A. (2023). BE (sustainability). In Encyclopaedia of Sustainable Management (pp. 1-9). Cham:

Springer International Publishing.

6. Elisha, O. (2019) The Nigeria BE: Prospects for Economic Growth and Challenges. International Journal

of Scientific Research in Education, 7(8), 657.

7. Gbadegesin, O.A. and Akintola, S. (2021) ‘Charting the Course for a BE in Nigeria: A Legal Agenda’

001. Journal of Environmental Law and Policy, 6-25. https://doi.org/10.33002/jelp001.01

8. Ibrahim, H. D. (2018). Harnessing the potentials of BE for sustainable development of Nigeria.

9. Kenya Vision 2030. (2018). Kenya Vision 2030: Third Medium Term Plan 2018-2022.

https://vision2030.go.ke

10. Martínez-Vazquez, R. M., Milan-Garcia, J. and De Pablo V., J. (2021). Challenges of the BE: Evidence

and research trends. Environ Science Europe, 33, 61.

11. Melo, G., Nascimento, N., Alencar, P. and Cowan, D. (2022). Understanding Levels of Automation in

Human-Machine Collaboration. In 2022 IEEE International Conference on Big Data (Big Data) (pp. 3952-

3958). IEEE.

12. Mkpandiok, A. and Ukpai, U. (2017). Managing Maritime Education and Training for the attainment of

Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria, World Educators Forum, 9 (1).

13. Michael, H. and Morgan, P.J. (2022). Overview of BE and blue finance: Toward sustainable development

and ocean governance. Asian Development Bank Institute, 1-7.

14. Nabi, K. and Hayat, M. (2025). Blueprint for a Sustainable BE: Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy

Pathways,

Jurnal

Ilmu

Ekonomi

dan

Pembangunan.

2548

–

1851.

25

(1),

50-66.

https://doi.org/10.20961/jiep.v25i1.99750

15. Narwal, S., Kaur, M., Yadav, D. and Bast, F. (2024). Sustainable BE: Opportunities and challenges.

Journal of Bioscience, 49 (1), 18.

16. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2020). The Role of Research and

Technology in the Changing Ocean Economy: Proceeding of a Workshop. Washington, DC: The National

Academies Press.https://doi.org/10.17226/25810.

17. Patrick, K., Pierre, F., Asmerom, M. G., Martin, N. and Serigne, T.D. (2022). Africa BE strategies

integrated in planning to achieve sustainable development at national and regional economic communities

(RECs). Journal of Sustainability Research, 4(3),2-34

18. Rotter, A., Gaudencio, S.P., Dubnika, A. and Vasquez, M.I. (2022). Editorial: Marine Biotechnology,

Revealing an Ocean of Opportunities. Front. Mar. Sci. 9:887630. https://doi: 10.3389/fmars.2022.887630

www.ijltemas.in

Page 20