By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian Coast Guard Establishment Bill is set to bolster the nation’s economy and safeguard its coastal and maritime resources.
The Establishment Bill aimed at curbing oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and marine pollution, the bill has drawn significant support from stakeholders during a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport in Abuja.
Also, the bill seeks to establish a dedicated branch of the military to secure Nigeria’s maritime zones and support the Navy during wartime.
Senator Eshilokun Sanni Wasiu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, highlighted its objectives, emphasizing maritime safety, law enforcement, and environmental protection.
Key Provisions of the Bill
According to Senator Wasiu, the Coast Guard will: “Enforce maritime laws, including the SPOMO Act, within Nigeria’s jurisdiction.
Protect lives and property in maritime zones.
Ensure safety through navigation, rescue operations, and inland waterway management in collaboration with NIWA.
Combat smuggling, bolster maritime security, and assist in training seafarers.
Conduct maritime surveillance to prevent pollution and other harmful practices.
“These measures align with international maritime obligations and aim to transform Nigeria into a global leader in maritime safety and environmental sustainability,” Wasiu stated.
Support from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy
Minister Adegboyega Oyetola expressed strong support for the bill, calling the Coast Guard a vital complement to the Navy.
He stressed that the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy, conserve natural resources, and ensure prosperity for future generations.
“A flexible and adaptive implementation strategy is crucial for its successful establishment. We urge all stakeholders, even those with reservations, to support this historic endeavor,” the minister added.
Utilization of Existing Facilities
Mr. Prince Maikpobi Okareme, Chairman of PANDEF Delta State, urged the federal government to refurbish abandoned facilities at Burutu and Forcados in Delta State as operational bases for the Coast Guard. This, he argued, would minimize costs and optimize resources.
Okareme also called attention to the Nigerian Marine Corps Bill (HB 225), which seeks to enhance maritime security and is currently under review in the National Assembly. PANDEF supports its swift passage.
Recommendations from Legal Experts
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jean Chiazor Anishere, representing the Nigerian Bar Association, advocated for the inclusion of stakeholder recommendations to ensure the Coast Guard’s effectiveness.
“A well-governed and effective Coast Guard will greatly contribute to Nigeria’s maritime security, safety, environmental protection, and economic growth,” she remarked.
Path to Sustainable Maritime Development
As the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill progresses through legislative channels, its comprehensive approach to maritime governance has positioned it as a cornerstone for national development. Stakeholders remain optimistic that its implementation will usher in a new era of safety, sustainability, and economic prosperity for Nigeria’s maritime sector.
