Marine engineering expert, Engr. Dr. Eferebo Ibietela Sylvanus, has called for greater investment in indigenous technology, research and local expertise to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy potential.
Eferebo made the call as he received the Maritime Innovation and Technology Leadership Award at the 15th Democracy Heroes Award Africa, held on October 9, 2026, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The recognition highlights the growing importance of marine engineering, naval architecture and technological innovation to Nigeria’s efforts to develop its maritime industry, strengthen local capacity and create new opportunities for economic growth.
With more than two decades of experience in engineering consultancy and technical leadership, Eferebo is the National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA), a professional body committed to advancing marine engineering through research, education, technical standards and industry collaboration.

He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Marine Engineering, a master’s degree in Naval Architecture and Ship Construction, and a doctorate in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

As founder and chief executive officer of Somatrix Marine Limited, an engineering consultancy, Eferebo has been involved in marine consulting, ship design, marine surveys, construction management and research and development.
His professional interests also cover maritime engineering standards and local content development, areas considered important to reducing dependence on foreign expertise and increasing indigenous participation in Nigeria’s maritime and offshore industries.

In April 2026, Eferebo advocated greater technical independence for the country’s maritime sector, arguing that Nigeria needed to develop its own capacity for innovation and industrial development rather than rely heavily on foreign expertise.
He has also promoted research and international collaboration through NIMENA, including efforts to encourage peer-reviewed engineering publications and strengthen cooperation among industry practitioners, researchers and policymakers.

In August 2026, the institution unveiled a shipbuilding trend report examining emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, robotics and blockchain-enabled supply chains, highlighting their potential to support maritime industrialisation.
The initiatives reflect the need to translate engineering research into practical solutions that can improve local shipbuilding, strengthen offshore operations, enhance maritime safety and make Nigerian businesses more competitive.

Nigeria’s extensive coastline and waterways offer opportunities in maritime transportation, shipbuilding, offshore energy and related services. However, maximising these opportunities requires more than access to natural resources; it also depends on technical expertise, appropriate infrastructure, sustained investment and the ability to develop and deploy homegrown technologies.

The blue economy encompasses economic activities linked to oceans, seas, rivers and other aquatic resources. Developing the sector could support job creation, industrial growth and investment, provided that economic activities are backed by effective regulation, skills development and environmental sustainability.

Eferebo’s recognition at the Democracy Heroes Award Africa places renewed attention on the role of specialised engineering professionals in advancing these objectives.
The award, now in its 15th edition, recognises individuals for contributions across various sectors.

For Nigeria, the broader challenge is to ensure that recognition of indigenous engineering expertise translates into stronger research institutions, improved technical training, greater local participation in shipbuilding and offshore services, and policies that encourage innovation.
As the country seeks to expand its maritime economy, sustained collaboration among government, professional bodies, research institutions and private businesses will be essential to turning its maritime potential into tangible economic benefits.