BANNER NEWS

Month: June 2026

  • FG Clears Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards for Katsina

    FG Clears Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards for Katsina

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Dutse

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Katsina State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and curb banditry and kidnapping across the state.

    Governor Dikko Umaru Radda announced the approval on Monday while briefing journalists after a meeting with Islamic clerics and other stakeholders at the Government House, Katsina.

    He described the development as a major boost to the state’s ongoing campaign against insecurity, noting that the forest guards would work alongside security agencies and community watch groups to secure forests and vulnerable rural communities.

    Radda thanked the President for approving the request, saying the recruits would be drawn from able-bodied young men and women and adequately trained to monitor forest corridors frequently used by criminal gangs.

    The governor also commended the Federal Government for increasing the deployment of military personnel, police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to Katsina.

    According to him, the additional security presence has enhanced ongoing efforts to confront banditry and restore peace in affected communities.

    Radda said the engagement with Islamic clerics formed part of a broader strategy to mobilise communities against insecurity, stressing that security agencies alone cannot defeat banditry without the support of residents.

    He disclosed that investigations had shown that some community members aid criminal groups through intelligence sharing, logistics support and the sale of stolen livestock.

    The governor described religious leaders as critical stakeholders in promoting moral values and encouraging citizens to reject criminality within their communities.

    As part of efforts to disrupt bandit operations, he said the government had imposed restrictions on motorcycle movements in some frontline local government areas, including Musawa and Matazu, while also regulating the use of Point of Sale (POS) machines and informal charging centres suspected of facilitating criminal activities.

    He added that restrictions on the sale of petroleum products were introduced to cut off supplies to bandits operating in forests and remote settlements.

    Radda assured residents that the government would continue to implement proactive measures to safeguard lives and property, urging citizens to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information.

    He maintained that lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained collaboration among government, security agencies and local communities.

     

  • Troops Recover, Exhume Body of Notorious Bandit Chief for Forensic Examination

    Troops Recover, Exhume Body of Notorious Bandit Chief for Forensic Examination

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja

    Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have exhumed the body of notorious bandit leader, Ibrahim Battijo, popularly known as Kachalla Baccujo, from a forest near Iluke in Bunu District of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State for forensic examination.

    Battijo was reportedly killed on June 10, 2026, during a military operation launched after he allegedly led a gang attack on students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) at Government Secondary School, Iluke.

    The attack claimed the lives of three persons, including the school’s Vice Principal, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

    Following the assault, joint military task force operatives pursued the attackers into the surrounding forest, where an exchange of gunfire ensued.

    During the operation, troops discovered Battijo’s lifeless body in the forest and buried it at the location pending further directives from higher authorities.

    Speaking after the exhumation exercise on Monday, June 15, 2026, Commander of the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Brigadier General Karim Sidi, said the operation was carried out in compliance with official instructions.

    According to him, the remains were exhumed to enable security agencies conduct an autopsy and DNA analysis to conclusively establish the identity of the deceased.

    “We have successfully exhumed the body of Ibrahim Battijo from the Iluke forest for autopsy and DNA testing to confirm whether he is indeed the person in question and put the matter to rest,” the Brigade Commander stated.

    General Sidi disclosed that he personally led a 12-man military team that carried out the operation.

    He further revealed that two helicopters deployed by the Office of the National Security Adviser provided aerial cover to ensure a smooth and secure exercise.

    Security sources said the development underscores the government’s determination to dismantle criminal networks operating in Kogi State and neighbouring areas.

     

  • Irregular Migration Amongst Growing International Threats Facing Nigeria – Border Commission Boss 

    Irregular Migration Amongst Growing International Threats Facing Nigeria – Border Commission Boss 

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Abuja

    The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, Surveyor Adamu A. Adaji has stated that Nigeria is grappling with several border challenges with neighbouring countries.

    He has stressed that effective border management demands sustained collaboration across all levels of government.

    Adaji spoke at a One-Day High-Level National Workshop on Border Security, Resilience and Cross-Border Cooperation, organized by the National Boundary Commission at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja, on Monday.

    He said the workshop was convened in response to growing transnational threats, irregular migration, smuggling, and other emerging challenges affecting border communities.

    He emphasized that Nigeria’s extensive land and coastal boundaries require coordinated efforts among border states, security agencies, and relevant institutions to ensure effective border governance.

    He noted that Nigeria shares about 4,454 kilometres of land borders with Benin Republic, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, as well as an 853-kilometre coastline

    Surv. Adaji also highlighted the Commission’s efforts in promoting local cross-border cooperation through community-based platforms designed to strengthen dialogue, build trust, facilitate lawful trade, and enhance security among communities with shared historical and cultural ties across Nigeria’s borders.

    Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor of Cross River State and Chairman of the State Boundary Committee, Dr. Peter Odey called on the NBC to intensify efforts toward the prompt demarcation of boundaries in the state and across the country in order to prevent recurring conflicts and strengthen peaceful coexistence among neighboring states and along international corridors.

    He described the gathering as timely and strategic, noting that effective border governance remains critical to Nigeria’s security, stability, and socio-economic development.

    He observed that countries across the world were increasingly adopting collaborative approaches to managing border-related challenges, strengthening security architecture, promoting peaceful coexistence, and fostering sustainable development in border communities.

    He further noted that his State continues to experience lingering boundary issues with neighbouring states and along its international corridor, stressing that these unresolved disputes pose challenges to peace, security, and development in affected communities.

    He emphasized the need for urgent and coordinated action to properly define and demarcate boundaries in order to prevent recurring tensions.

    “As a border state, Cross River appreciates the strategic importance of effective border governance and cross-border collaboration,” Odey stated, adding that the administration of Bassey Otu remains committed to promoting peace, security, and inclusive development, particularly in communities located along the state’s international boundaries.

    He drew the attention of the NBC to lingering boundary disputes involving Cross River State and neighboring states, including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Benue, and Abia, as well as recent boundary-related tensions, including the reported invasion by Cameroonian soldiers in Danare, Boki Local Government Area, and unresolved matters surrounding the Bakassi Peninsula.

    He urged the Commission to rise to its statutory responsibility by ensuring proper and timely boundary demarcation across affected areas.

    The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, (Rtd.), represented by his Special Adviser to the Minister, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole (rtd), described the event as timely and strategic, emphasizing that Nigeria’s borders serve as vital centres of economic exchange, cultural integration, and national security.

    He called for innovative approaches to border governance, including the deployment of drone technology, improved early warning systems, and stronger cross-border cooperation.

    The Minister noted that resilient borders are not only secure but also adaptive and inclusive, stressing that sustained investment, policy coordination, and political will are essential to strengthening Nigeria’s border security architecture and promoting sustainable development in border communities.

    The workshop featured goodwill messages from deputy governors representing the twenty-one border states of Nigeria, including those of Benue, Zamfara, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Delta, Kebbi, Borno, and Rivers States, alongside traditional rulers and experts.

    There were paper presentations on cross-border cooperation, maritime governance, drone technology, intelligence-driven security, early warning systems, and peace-building.

     

  • Disputed Cocoa Estate: Defying Court Order Could Attract Sanctions, Monarchs Warn Youths

    Disputed Cocoa Estate: Defying Court Order Could Attract Sanctions, Monarchs Warn Youths

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    Traditional rulers in Bendeghe Ekiem Community, Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, have warned youths occupying disputed plots at the government-owned Cocoa Estate to comply with a subsisting court order and vacate the farms or risk legal sanctions.

    The warning was issued by the Chairman of the Crisis Management Committee of Mbume Blocks of Clans, Chief Moses Ndep, during an interaction with journalists in Bendeghe Ekiem.

    Ndep said obedience to court judgments remains critical to the maintenance of peace and order in the community, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands.

    According to him, the disputed cocoa plots were legally allocated to contractors and other beneficiaries by the previous administration pursuant to a consent judgment entered by a competent court.

    He cautioned that any attempt to resist the judgment could portray the community as being opposed to lawful authority and the judicial process.

    “The court has already made its position known on the matter. As a law-abiding community, we must respect and obey lawful orders. Failure to do so could attract sanctions, as the law will inevitably take its course,” Ndep said.

    The traditional ruler spoke shortly after the handover of keys to a building donated by former Special Adviser on Cocoa Development, Dr Oscar Ofuka. The facility is expected to serve as temporary accommodation for Faith Plant Global, the company handling the rehabilitation of the 10-kilometre Ikom–Obudu road project awarded by the Cross River State Government.

    Explaining the roots of the dispute, Ndep said the matter arose after cocoa-producing landlord communities sued the administration of former Governor Ben Ayade over the non-payment of royalties spanning 16 years.

    He noted that the case was eventually resolved through a consent judgment under which more than 1,000 hectares of cocoa farms were leased for six years to approved allottees who paid the required fees into Cross River State Government accounts.

    According to him, fresh tensions emerged when a cocoa allocation committee under the present administration reportedly reallocated some of the same plots to new beneficiaries, resulting in overlapping claims and renewed disputes within the estate.

    He said the situation has generated anxiety among stakeholders and raised concerns over possible breaches of the court-backed arrangement.

    Ndep therefore appealed to the youths to vacate the disputed farms and allow lawful processes to prevail in resolving any outstanding issues.

    “I repeat, leave those farms for the rightful allottees. If those occupying them refuse to comply with the court order, the law will take its course,” he warned.

    .

  • Doctors get 100% pay rise as Cross River Recruits 2,000 Health Workers

    Doctors get 100% pay rise as Cross River Recruits 2,000 Health Workers

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    Doctors in Cross River State have received a 100 per cent salary increase as the state government moves to strengthen healthcare delivery through the recruitment of 2,000 additional health workers.

    Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Calabar, announcing that the embargo on employment in the health sector has also been lifted.

    Ayuk said Governor Bassey Otu approved the salary increase for doctors alongside enhanced allowances for other health personnel and the establishment of the Cross River State Hospital Management Board.

    The commissioner further revealed that the government has released funds for the renovation of General Hospital, Ukem, and Cottage Hospital, Oban, as well as the commencement of civil works at the abandoned General Hospital complex in Akpabuyo.

    According to him, the projects are part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to revitalise public healthcare institutions and improve access to quality medical services across the state.

    “Governor Bassey Otu has approved the release of funds for the renovation of General Hospital Ukem and Cottage Hospital Oban, as well as the commencement of civil works at the abandoned General Hospital complex in Akpabuyo,” he said.

    Ayuk noted that the latest intervention follows the successful revitalisation of more than 100 primary healthcare centres across the state within the last two years, describing it as evidence of the administration’s commitment to rebuilding healthcare infrastructure.

    He dismissed claims that the health sector had been neglected, maintaining that the Otu administration has increased funding to healthcare by more than 100 per cent since assuming office.

    The commissioner said the increased investment has improved service delivery and laid a solid foundation for the ongoing transformation of secondary and tertiary health institutions.

    He described the establishment of the Hospital Management Board, following the signing of the enabling law by Governor Otu, as a major institutional reform aimed at strengthening the administration and efficiency of public hospitals.

    Ayuk assured residents that all healthcare facilities in the state would benefit from the government’s reform agenda, which seeks to build a modern, efficient and accessible healthcare system for all Cross Riverians.

    He reiterated the administration’s commitment to sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, manpower development and service delivery as part of broader efforts to improve the quality of life of citizens across the state.

     

  • AN OPEN LETTER TO H.E. ROTIMI CHIBUIKE AMAECHI The Imperative of Equity, Justice, and Respect for Zonal Understanding Ahead of the 2027 Presidential Election

    AN OPEN LETTER TO H.E. ROTIMI CHIBUIKE AMAECHI The Imperative of Equity, Justice, and Respect for Zonal Understanding Ahead of the 2027 Presidential Election

    Your Excellency,

    I write as a committed stakeholder of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a loyal party man who has invested considerable time, energy, and resources in the struggle to build a credible political alternative for Nigerians.

    Recent speculations suggesting a possible Atiku Abubakar–Rotimi Amaechi presidential ticket for the 2027 general election have generated widespread concern among many stakeholders, particularly those of us who firmly believe in the principles of equity, justice, fairness, Good conscience and national balance.

    Your Excellency, when you declared your presidential ambition, you made it abundantly clear that you were not in the race to become anyone’s Vice President. You sought the highest office in the land because you believed you possessed the competence, experience, and leadership credentials required to lead Nigeria. That position earned you the respect and support of many Nigerians, especially those from the Southern region who saw your aspiration as part of the broader quest for political inclusion and justice.

    It is therefore difficult to reconcile that position with any arrangement that would once again relegate the South to the position of Vice President at a time when many Nigerians believe that, in the interest of fairness and national cohesion, the presidency should remain in the South.

    This raises fundamental questions that deserve honest answers.

    Does it mean that Southern politicians are considered qualified only for the office of Vice President and not President under Atiku’s political idea?

    Does it mean that despite producing capable and experienced leaders, the South should continually surrender its legitimate aspiration to occupy the highest office in the country?

    Does it mean that the gentleman’s understanding regarding power rotation between the North and South should only be respected when it benefits certain interests?

    As someone who coordinated the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Primary Campaign in Cross River State in 2019, State Coordinator ASO in 2021 until Gov Ben Ayade defected to APC, I do not make these observations from a position of hostility. On the contrary, I have been a longstanding supporter of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, dating back to 2011. My commitment to his political vision has never been in doubt.

    For this reason, I had expected that, in the spirit of statesmanship and national unity, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar would support the emergence of a credible Southern presidential candidate in 2027. Such a position would not only strengthen national cohesion but also reinforce confidence in the principle of power rotation that has helped stabilize our democracy over the years.

    Consequently, I respectfully urge Your Excellency, Rotimi Amaechi, not to lend credibility to any political arrangement that undermines the legitimate expectations of millions of Southerners who believe that 2027 presents an opportunity to consolidate the principles of fairness and inclusiveness in our national politics.

    If those promoting such a ticket believe there are other individuals who are more popular, stronger, or more acceptable in the South, they are free to pursue such options. Indeed, if the intention is to maintain a Northern presidential candidacy, then they should equally look within their own region for a running mate. The South should not be invited merely to endorse or legitimize an arrangement that many perceive as fundamentally unjust.

    History has shown that sustainable political partnerships are built on mutual respect, trust, and fairness, not expediency.

    As stakeholders, we wish to state clearly and unequivocally that any arrangement that disregards the principle of equity and the legitimate aspirations of the South will face serious resistance from party faithful and political actors who remain committed to justice and balanced nation-building.

    Our democracy can only thrive when political leaders honor both the letter and spirit of the understandings that promote national unity.

    We therefore call on Your Excellency to reject any collaboration that diminishes the South’s rightful place in the ongoing national conversation about leadership and succession. Such a principled stand will not only protect your political legacy but also serve as a deterrent against future attempts to undermine the values of fairness, justice, and inclusiveness in Nigeria’s democratic process.

    May wisdom, courage, and patriotism guide all those who seek to lead our nation.

     

    Austine Ibok

    ADC Stakeholder, Cross River State

  • Otu Flags Off Electric Vehicle Scheme, Promises Affordable Mobility For Residents

    Otu Flags Off Electric Vehicle Scheme, Promises Affordable Mobility For Residents

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has unveiled 36 electric vehicles for Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service, flagging off a broader electric mobility programme aimed at reducing transportation costs and promoting clean energy.

    The presentation ceremony, held in Calabar as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, also signalled the commencement of a larger initiative involving 100 electric vehicles and 100 electric tricycles for public transportation and empowerment purposes.

    Speaking at the event, Otu said the initiative was designed to strengthen the public service, improve governance efficiency and ease the transportation burden on senior civil servants.

    According to him, one of the key priorities of his administration is to build integrity in the public service by motivating officials and creating an environment that enables them to perform at their highest capacity.

    The governor described Permanent Secretaries as some of the most competent professionals in the country, stressing that a strong bureaucracy remains the foundation of effective governance.

    Otu explained that the state’s decision to embrace electric mobility followed a careful assessment of rising transportation costs and the need to shield citizens from the impact of fluctuations in the petroleum sector.

    He disclosed that the government initially considered Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles before settling for electric vehicles as a more sustainable and cost-effective option.

    Highlighting the benefits of the scheme, the governor said electric vehicles would enable users to save substantially on fuel and maintenance costs, noting that beneficiaries could reduce transportation expenses by more than 75 per cent.

    He revealed that the 36 vehicles handed over to Permanent Secretaries represent the first phase of a larger programme and expressed optimism that electric mobility would eventually become accessible to a wider segment of the population.

    Otu also announced plans to establish charging stations and related infrastructure across the state to support the growing adoption of electric vehicles by both government officials and members of the public.

    The governor commended the Cross River State House of Assembly for supporting his administration’s development programmes through legislative backing and budget approvals, saying the cooperation between the executive and legislature had contributed significantly to the state’s progress.

    Earlier, the Head of Service, Barrister Orok Okon, described the presentation of the vehicles as a historic milestone and a major morale booster for the state civil service.

    He noted that Permanent Secretaries had not enjoyed such a benefit in more than a decade and praised Governor Otu for making them the first beneficiaries of electric automobile technology in the state public service.

    Okon assured the governor that the gesture would be rewarded with greater dedication, commitment and improved service delivery by the beneficiaries.

  • Justice Oho Urges Peace, Unity At Global Interfaith Conference in Akwa Ibom

    Justice Oho Urges Peace, Unity At Global Interfaith Conference in Akwa Ibom

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Uyo

    The Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Yola Division, Hon. Justice Frederick O. Oho, has called on religious leaders and people of faith to promote peace, unity and mutual understanding as vital tools for addressing the challenges facing humanity.

    Justice Oho made the call while declaring open the BCS Inter-Religious World Conference and Retreat organised by the Christ Universal General Fellowship (CUGF) in Akwa Ibom State.

    The conference, tagged Akwa Ibom 2026, had as its theme: “The Power of Unity in Diversity: Many Voices, One Humanity.”

    He said the theme was timely, noting that the world is blessed with diversity but continues to grapple with division, intolerance, conflict and misunderstanding among peoples and nations.

    According to him, despite differences in faiths, cultures and traditions, humanity shares a common aspiration for peace, justice, human dignity and collective progress.

    The appellate court judge stressed that diversity should not be seen as a weakness but as a strength capable of enriching societies and fostering cooperation among people of different backgrounds.

    He lamented the growing challenges of religious extremism, violent conflicts, poverty, inequality, environmental degradation and social fragmentation, saying the solution lies in learning to respect differences while recognising a common humanity.

    Justice Oho described the conference as more than a gathering of minds, saying it was a meeting of hearts aimed at deepening dialogue, promoting mutual understanding and building bridges of cooperation among faith communities.

    He urged participants to engage openly, listen respectfully and seek common ground in their deliberations, adding that people of different beliefs and traditions can work together for the advancement of humanity.

    The jurist also commended delegates, facilitators, partners and sponsors for supporting the conference and expressed hope that the retreat would serve as a beacon of hope and a model of peaceful coexistence in an increasingly divided world.

  • NPC Commissioner Ukam Hails Nigeria’s 27 Years of Democracy

    NPC Commissioner Ukam Hails Nigeria’s 27 Years of Democracy

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    The Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission (NPC) in Cross River State, Barr. Alex Ukam, has congratulated Nigerians and the people of Cross River State on the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.

    In a Democracy Day message on Friday, Ukam described the nation’s democratic journey since 1999 as one marked by challenges and significant achievements, noting that democracy remains the most credible system of government because it allows citizens to freely choose their leaders.

    He said the gains recorded under democratic rule have been substantial and far-reaching despite the difficulties encountered along the way.

    The NPC commissioner commended the Executive, Legislative and Judicial arms of government for their collective contributions to sustaining democratic governance in Nigeria over the past 27 years.

    Ukam also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, for what he described as their uncommon efforts in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance.

    While celebrating the milestone, he urged citizens to reflect on actions and inactions that could threaten the nation’s democratic foundations.

    According to him, Nigerians have a collective responsibility to nurture, strengthen and protect democracy for the benefit of present and future generations.

    He called on citizens to remain committed to preserving the country’s democratic heritage and to act as builders rather than destroyers of the system.

    Ukam wished Nigerians and the people of Cross River State a happy Democracy Day celebration and reaffirmed the need for continued support for democratic ideals and institutions.

     

     

  • FG Urged To Invest in Marine Science To Unlock Blue Economic Potential

    FG Urged To Invest in Marine Science To Unlock Blue Economic Potential

    Eyo Charles, Calabar

    The Federal Government has been urged to invest heavily in marine science and ocean resource development to unlock the vast economic opportunities embedded in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

    Dean of the Faculty of Oceanography, University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Francis Nwosu, made the call during the 2026 World Oceans Day celebration organised by the Faculty and Institute of Oceanography.

    The event was themed, “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know – A New Relationship With Our Ocean.”

    Prof. Nwosu said Nigeria’s ocean resources remain largely untapped despite their enormous potential to drive economic growth, enhance food security and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities.

    He stressed that strategic investments in marine science, research and manpower development would help unlock the nation’s blue economy.

    According to him, World Oceans Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility of nations to protect marine ecosystems while harnessing their resources for sustainable development.

    The dean stated that UNICAL is well-positioned to lead marine research and development in Nigeria, but requires adequate funding and modern facilities to fully explore and utilise the country’s vast ocean resources.

    He warned that coastal communities and cities face increasing threats from climate change and environmental degradation, calling for greater investment in conservation efforts to protect lives, livelihoods and marine biodiversity.

    Prof. Nwosu also appealed to the university management to prioritise marine sciences and strengthen student training programmes to maximise opportunities in research, innovation and the emerging blue economy.

    Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, he described the move as a strategic recognition of the economic value of Nigeria’s oceans and waterways.

    He noted that the ministry could drive investment, regulation and sustainable exploitation of marine resources if supported with adequate funding and political commitment.

    The oceanography expert lamented that Nigeria has explored less than one per cent of its coastal waters, despite oceans covering about 71 per cent of the earth’s surface.

    He said the country’s maritime domain remains underutilised, with immense untapped potential for economic development and food production.

    Earlier, the Director of the Institute of Oceanography, Dr. Philomena Edet Asuquo, said the theme of this year’s World Oceans Day calls on everyone to rethink not only how we use the ocean but how we value, protect, and connect with it, and to recognize its vital role in sustaining life on earth.
     She noted that in recent times, coastal communities, particularly fishermen, have lamented how rising pollution and dwindling fish stocks are affecting their lives.
     “Their stories remind us that the health of our oceans is not abstract, but deeply tied to human lives, livelihoods, and our shared future,” she said.

    Guest speaker and Science and Technology Manager at Novel Ocean-Climate Innovation Hydro-Initiative, Engr. Henry Okoroego, called on policymakers and stakeholders to place marine ecosystems at the centre of national development planning.

    He said investments in ocean data, clean technology and community-based monitoring would be critical to reversing ocean degradation and strengthening the resilience of coastal communities.

    The event attracted students, academics and other stakeholders, and featured interactive discussions on marine biodiversity, climate change, ocean conservation and career opportunities in the blue economy.