The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Wednesday, launched the Blue Economy Accelerator Programme, a targeted initiative to empower young Nigerians to build startups and tech-driven solutions that will transform the nation’s maritime sector.
Designed with youth participation at its core, the Accelerator will identify, nurture, and fast-track early-stage ventures led by young innovators.
According to a statement, participants will receive business development support, industry mentorship, technical guidance, and access to investor networks to convert ideas into commercially viable enterprises that address pressing maritime challenges.
“The Blue Economy Accelerator demonstrates NIMASA’s commitment to unlocking opportunities for young innovators and entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s marine sector,” said Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola.
“We want to create a platform where talented young people can scale solutions, attract investment, and drive sustainable growth across the blue economy.”
Dr. Mobereola commended the Hon. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for articulating a clear Marine and Blue Economy Policy that provides direction for sector growth.
He urged Nigerian youth to take advantage of the programme’s training, mentoring, and funding pathways, noting its potential to turn raw talent into scalable maritime enterprises.
The Accelerator welcomes applications from Nigerian-led startups and innovators working across priority areas, including: Marine waste management and the blue circular economy,Aquaculture and sustainable fisheries, Maritime technology and logistics innovation, Ocean energy (wave, tidal, offshore renewables), Marine tourism and coastal recreation,Marine biotechnology and ocean data analytics.
Others are – Green shipping and vessel decarbonisation,Smart port solutions and autonomous marine vehicles
Biofouling prevention and coastal resilience (nature-based solutions)
The first phase aims to attract at least 150 high-quality applications from young founders across Nigeria and the diaspora, provided applicants are Nigerian citizens.
Applications and further details are available via NIMASA’s communications channels. The Agency encourages media houses to amplify this opportunity to reach aspiring youth entrepreneurs and innovators nationwide.
