NIGERIA NAVY KICKS AGAINST THE ESTABLISHMENT OF COAST GUARD 07-12-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has stressed the need for the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard to support the sustainable development of the Marine and Blue Economy sector.
Speaking at a one day public hearing organised by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport on the Nigerian Coast Guard Establishment Bill, the Minister observed that the Nigerian Coast Guard would act as a vital complement to the Navy.
He said it’s establishment would foster a safe and sustainable maritime environment that is aligned with international best practices.
Oyetola added that the initiative would also strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy, protect the nation’s natural resources, and ensure prosperity for future generations.
According to him, A flexible, adaptive implementation strategy should be evolved to midwife its establishment, adding that the ministry also encourages those with reservations to see the pressing need for the institution and rally in support of the endeavour.
“Nigeria has a vast coastline of 853 kilometres, including 10,000 kilometers of inland waterways. It is also blessed with rich and diverse marine resources. The exploitation of marine and blue economy potentials usually comes with inevitable consequences which necessitate special institutional arrangements to guarantee safety and conservation.
“The spate of boats mishap within our inland waterways is also a strong justification for the need to strengthen our maritime safety and the enforcement of maritime laws and regulations in the inland waterways. This is necessary to boost maritime trade and trans-shipment in Nigeria.
However, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla argued that the bill diverges from the intent of existing national security frameworks, constitutional provisions, and cost-effective governance policies.
Ogalla, represented by Rear Admiral, Olusegun Ferreira stated that rather than achieving greater efficiency and security, the proposed bill risks duplicating roles, straining limited resources.
He observed that the proposed legislation would introduce operational conflicts within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Akintunde Yunus, said the establishment of the National Coast Guard is not merely a legislative formality, but a dire necessity.
Speaking also at the hearing, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine and Transport, Sen. Sanni Eshinlokun said the Bill was read for the second time and referred to the Senate Committee on Marine Transport for further legislative action.
He added that the public hearing seeks to enhance the Bill’s provisions in alignment to the 10th Senate commitment to inclusive law-making.