Minister pushes for Nigerian coast guard to safeguard maritime domain

Minister pushes for Nigerian coast guard to safeguard maritime domain

By Fly Cable News

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for increased support for establishing the Nigerian Coast Guard.

Oyetola stresses its vital role in ensuring maritime safety, economic growth and environmental protection.

Oyetola made the call at a public hearing held by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport on Thursday, where he addressed key stakeholders and lawmakers about the importance of the proposed legislation.

Speaking on Nigeria’s maritime potential, Oyetola highlighted its vast coastline, which stretches over 850 kilometres, and its significant economic importance.

Nigeria has a vast coastline of 850 km, the equivalent of 10,000 km in two ways. It is also a place of rich and diverse economic sources,” he said.

The minister emphasised that with these opportunities come risks, including pollution, overfishing, and the unsustainable exploitation of marine resources.

The proposed Nigerian Coast Guard is designed to address these challenges, he stated.