Marine engineering expert and business leader, Dr I. Sylvanus Eferebo, has called for a stronger policy framework to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy potential, saying the sector could become a major driver of economic growth if properly developed and managed.

Eferebo made the call while speaking during a panel session at the 2026 Megastar Man of the Decade Awards in Abuja, where he was honoured for his contributions to blue economy development.
The marine engineering professional received the 2026 Megastar Man of the Decade Award in Blue Economy Development at the ceremony held on Friday, October 16, in recognition of his contributions to engineering, leadership, human capital development and national development over the past decade.

He stressed the need for policies that would create an enabling environment for maritime businesses and related industries to thrive, noting that Nigeria had significant opportunities to expand economic activities associated with its marine and aquatic resources.

The blue economy encompasses economic activities linked to oceans, seas, inland waterways and other aquatic resources, including shipping, fisheries, marine transportation, shipbuilding, coastal tourism and offshore operations.

With its extensive coastline, inland waterways and maritime trade activities, Nigeria has opportunities to generate employment, attract investment and diversify its economy through the development of these sectors.

Eferebo’s recognition at the awards ceremony brought together prominent Nigerians from different fields who were honoured for their contributions to society and national development.

Other personalities recognised at the event included Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly; Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District; and Dr Reuben Abati.

Dr Okunbor and Senator Meda Imasuen were also among those recognised at the ceremony. The awards, organised by Megastar Magazine, were held under the theme, “The Road to 2027: Citizens, Stakeholders, and the Democracy We Choose.”

The theme focused on citizens’ participation, stakeholder responsibility and the future of democratic governance as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on the rationale behind the awards, the Executive Producer of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards, Dr Adeniyi Ifetayo, said the selection process focused on sustained contributions over ten years rather than achievements recorded within a single year.

“We don’t just consider what they have done in the last one year, but we put into consideration what they have done in a decade — 10 years,” Ifetayo said.

He explained that the organisers assessed nominees based on their contributions to their communities and the wider society, including the impact of their activities in the public and private sectors.

According to him, the awards were designed to recognise individuals whose work had produced positive social impact over an extended period.In a goodwill message, Daniel emphasised the importance of placing citizens at the centre of leadership and governance, urging public officeholders and other stakeholders to prioritise the interests and welfare of the people.

Eferebo, whose professional career spans more than two decades, has worked in technical consultancy, engineering management and leadership within Nigeria’s maritime sector and internationally.

He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Marine Engineering, a Master of Technology degree in Naval Architecture and Ship Construction, and a doctorate in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.

He is a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Institute of Management Consultants. He is also affiliated with the Society of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects.

As Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Somatrix Marine Limited, Eferebo oversees a marine engineering company involved in marine consultancy, ship design, marine surveys, construction management, research and development, and other maritime-related services.

The company also has operations extending to South Africa and activities spanning marine technology, manufacturing, distribution, outsourcing and consultancy. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Eferebo serves as National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects.

He is also chairman of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria’s Sector Committee on Engineering Regulation, Monitoring and Enforcement for the maritime sector, as well as Board Chairman of the Centre for Marine and Offshore Technology Development.

The organisers said his recognition reflected his contributions to engineering, human capital development, leadership and philanthropy.The ceremony brought together professionals, political leaders and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals whose activities have contributed to their respective sectors and the broader Engineering society.