Rivers State Governor Siminalaye Fubara has urged authorities to halt the unauthorized entry of international fishing vessels into Nigerian maritime territory. Represented by Deputy Governor Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, Fubara spoke at the 66th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) held in Port Harcourt. The event, themed focused on the Gulf of Guinea and the blue economy, served as a platform for him to highlight the exploitation of local seafood resources by foreign trawlers that operate without paying taxes or providing compensation.
Fubara emphasized that Nigeria must protect its sovereign maritime assets, noting that he has repeatedly raised concerns about foreign entities depleting West African coastal resources. He praised NACCIMA for selecting Rivers State as the host, suggesting this move underscores the state’s safety and growing status as a premier hub for investment and private sector collaboration. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate to drive job creation and sustainable economic development.
Dr. Jani Ibrahim, the National President of NACCIMA, commended the Rivers State government for its strategic improvements to infrastructure and transport, which he believes enhance the region’s competitiveness. He expressed confidence that the state is positioned to lead Nigeria toward a one-trillion-dollar economy. Dr. Chinyere Nwoga, President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, added that hosting this summit reinforces the city’s role as a vital gateway for commerce in the Niger Delta.
