Bayelsa State is set to host industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and investors from across the world for the 1st Annual International Conference and Trade Exhibition on Marine and Blue Economy (IMABEC 2025), scheduled to hold from November 18 to 20, 2025, at the Conference Center, Golden Tulip Hotel, Government House, Onopa, Yenagoa.
The groundbreaking event will spotlight Africa’s emerging opportunities within its vast coastal and marine resources, as nations increasingly shift focus toward the Blue Economy as a driver of sustainable development, job creation, and economic diversification.
Organizers say the three-day conference and exhibition will serve as a strategic platform for stakeholders to explore investment and innovation opportunities across critical sectors including maritime, fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, renewable energy, marine biotechnology, and coastal tourism.
IMABEC 2025 is expected to attract top government officials, industry experts, international organizations, research institutions, and development partners who will discuss policy frameworks, innovative technologies, and financing mechanisms that can unlock the full potential of Africa’s ocean and marine wealth.
Participants will also gain access to insights on the Blue Planet Funds—a growing global investment platform focused on financing sustainable ocean-based projects. Through exhibitions, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the conference will promote collaboration between African nations and international partners toward achieving inclusive and resilient marine economies.
Speaking ahead of the event, the organizers emphasized that IMABEC 2025 will not only deepen understanding of the blue economy but also position Nigeria—particularly Bayelsa State—as a hub for sustainable marine development in West Africa.
“Bayelsa, with its rich coastline and natural endowments, is the perfect destination for this historic gathering,” one of the conveners noted. “We are creating a space where global expertise meets local opportunity to transform Africa’s relationship with its oceans.”
The event offers opportunities to exhibit, sponsor, or attend, with registration now open to stakeholders across both public and private sectors.
Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spot early to be part of Africa’s marine economic transformation at IMABEC 2025 — where innovation meets sustainability.
