4 hours Ago By Guardian Nigeria
Nigeria and some other West African nations including Ghana are prepared to showcase their blue economy potentials at the forthcoming maritime trade fair – BOOT Düsseldorf, in Germany. The organisers, in a statement, disclosed that some countries in West Africa, including Ghana and Nigeria, have keyed into its ocean conservation efforts and would participate in the upcoming trade fair. The global showcase will host over 1,500 exhibitors from over 100 countries during a nine-day exhibition scheduled to hold from January 18 to 26, 2025, in Düsseldorf, Germany.
According to the organisers, a key highlight of the fair is the prestigious Ocean Tribute Award, an initiative in collaboration with the Prince Albert II Foundation and the German Ocean Foundation. With a prize of €20,000, the award recognises trailblazing projects in marine conservation. Since its inception in 2018, the Ocean Tribute Award has spotlighted impactful initiatives from across the globe, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 to promote the sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources.
This year, West Africa proudly took the global stage as Ghanaian non-profit, ECOP Africa, emerged winner of this prestigious prize. Recognised for its innovative approach to nature-based carbon removal, ecosystem rehabilitation and sustainable aquaculture, ECOP Africa’s work has significantly impacted ocean health, tackled illegal fishing and integrated indigenous knowledge into climate action. ECOP Ghana Coordinator, Peter Teye Busumprah, said as the first African and young ocean expert to receive the prestigious award, it represents the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainable oceans.
“It is a recognition that meaningful work aimed at societal impact can gain international attention. For us, this award is a major milestone, validating our innovative solutions to ocean-related challenges. West African Representative, Messe Düsseldorf, Itua Akhigbe, said the event provides a unique platform for businesses and marine enthusiasts from Nigeria and West Africa to connect with international leaders and explore cutting-edge solutions for the maritime industry.
“We are particularly excited to continue this momentum in 2025 as we celebrate African success stories like ECOP Africa and spotlight more game-changing initiatives from the region,” Akhigbe said..
