In the vast world of maritime and blue economy, the cooperation between the Ministry of Maritime and Blue Economy and the Nigerian Navy is of paramount importance in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime space. Minister Adegboyega Oyetola stressed the need to strengthen this collaboration to ensure the security of Nigeria’s territorial waters, as is being done elsewhere in the world.
During the Senate Public Hearing on the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill, 2024, the Minister commended the achievements of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding the country’s maritime space, thereby contributing to Nigeria’s positive image internationally. He highlighted the successful outcomes of Project Deep Blue, conducted in collaboration with his agency, the Nigerian Maritime and Navigation Safety Agency (NIMASA), which has resulted in an impressive record of zero piracy incidents in Nigeria’s territorial waters in the last three years.
However, the Minister stressed that it was imperative to strengthen the joint efforts of the Nigerian Navy and relevant agencies to ensure optimum maritime security. He highlighted the need for the establishment of a National Coast Guard to ensure maritime security, search and rescue operations, environmental protection and civil maritime law enforcement.
Indeed, the Coast Guard would play a critical role in securing lives, property and trade in Nigeria’s coastal and inland waters. Its ability to respond quickly to emergencies, conduct effective search and rescue operations and collaborate closely with other government agencies was crucial to ensuring sustainable management of maritime resources and promoting maritime governance in line with international best practices.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed the importance of enhanced collaboration with military and paramilitary agencies to protect Nigeria’s maritime resources. He advocated for the establishment of effective mechanisms for coordination and sharing of technology and resources to ensure optimum protection of the country’s waters and maritime assets.
In conclusion, the establishment of a National Coast Guard in Nigeria is essential to enhance maritime security, preserve the marine ecosystem, promote sustainable maritime trade and strengthen the country’s position on the international stage. This initiative would consolidate the efforts of the Nigerian Navy and government agencies in ensuring the security of Nigeria’s territorial waters, while contributing to a safe and prosperous maritime environment for future generations.