The Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, Mr. Dada Olusegun, emphasized that the blue economy is far less complicated than many Nigerians assume, pointing out that the real challenge lies in how it is communicated to the public.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja ahead of the Blue Economy Investment Summit set for March 9–11, 2026, in Lagos, Olusegun stressed that digital platforms offer a vital tool for connecting maritime policies to the daily realities of Nigerians, particularly the youth.
“The blue economy is not complicated at all. The problem is that we explain it in complicated ways. Social media allows us to break it down,” he said.
Addressing journalists and policymakers, Olusegun highlighted the critical role of media professionals in shaping public understanding and driving policy engagement. “No policy today moves without effective storytelling. Digital media is not an afterthought—it is central to governance,” he noted.
He explained that public perception remains a significant hurdle, as many disengage when faced with technical terms, even though maritime activities directly influence food prices, employment, and livelihoods. “When people ask, ‘How does this affect the price of rice?’ that question is valid. Ports impact everything we eat, wear, and trade. If ports work better, costs come down,” he said.
Olusegun also pointed to the importance of engaging young Nigerians, who make up over 70 percent of the population. “Young people don’t hate information; they hate boring information. Our attention span is about 30 seconds. Instead of big grammar, show a short video of goods moving efficiently at ports or a young Nigerian explaining logistics in 30 seconds,” he added.
He outlined strategies for effective blue economy advocacy, including making maritime content relatable, partnering with influencers, telling stories in indigenous languages, and building online communities around opportunities such as training, jobs, and scholarships.
Highlighting the success of the Progressive Digital Media Summit earlier this year, Olusegun noted that government engagement with the digital ecosystem produces organic, youth-driven nationwide conversations. He also revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu holds weekly briefings with his media and digital team to review public feedback on government policies. “This administration is not afraid to make mistakes or correct them. Valid complaints reach the President, and policies are adjusted when necessary,” he said.
On youth employment, he stressed that many careers exist within the maritime sector that remain largely unknown. “If we want this sector to thrive, we must train the next generation and show them how they can benefit,” Olusegun said.
Speaking at the same event, Princess Ronke Kosoko, CEO of Maritime Innovations Hub, explained that the organization was created to serve as a nexus for innovation, policy advocacy, education, and investment within Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem. She noted that the Hub aims to connect government, business, and individuals, support maritime MSMEs, foster
