Maritime Stakeholders Support Establishment of Coast Guard at Public Hearing on New Bill

Stakeholders and experts in the nation’s maritime sector have expressed support for the Coast Guard Bill before the National Assembly, with many describing the proposed legislation as a boost to the federal government’s efforts in securing the maritime space.  

A bill, sponsored by Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun (APC-Lagos), aims to establish a dedicated agency under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, tasked with ensuring maritime safety, environmental protection and enforcing civil maritime laws.

 Speaking at the public hearing convened by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to discuss the proposed bill for the establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard, they presented varying views on the bill, with the majority supporting the creation of the National Coast Guard.  

The Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola emphasised the critical role the proposed Coast Guard would play in securing Nigeria’s vast maritime domain. He described the initiative as a transformative step towards bolstering the nation’s maritime economy and safeguarding its waterways.

Oyetola outlined the strategic importance of the Coast Guard, noting its alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He commended the National Assembly, particularly the Senate Committee chaired by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun, for piloting the legislative process. The proposed legislation garnered support from key stakeholders, including civil society organisations, youth groups and regional socio-cultural associations.

Most presentations voiced strong support for the establishment of the Coast Guard, with notable endorsements from prominent figures including Dr OlisaAgbakoba, SAN; Dr Ade Dosunmu, MON, former Director General of NIMASA; Mrs. Jean Anishere, SAN, representing the Nigeria Bar Association; and Rear Admiral Ekwerre U. Ekwerre (Rtd), former Flag Officer Commanding the Training Command of the Nigerian Navy.

Dr. Olisa Agbakoba described the bill as timely but emphasized the need for professional input to address certain concerns within the draft. He expressed his willingness to assist in this process. Dr Ade Dosunmu offered full support for the bill, suggesting that the Nigerian Navy should focus on blue-water operations and national defence against external threats, while the Coast Guard should address maritime crimes and incidents along the nation’s extensive 855-kilometre coastline using more adaptable resources.

He referenced successful maritime nations such as India, Singapore, China, the United States, Japan, Egypt, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, all of which have well-defined roles for both the Navy and Coast Guard.

However, Dr Dosunmu cautioned against assigning functions such as hydrography and oceanographic research to the Coast Guard, as these responsibilities are already managed by other agencies, and incorporating them could divert focus from the Coast Guard’s primary mission.

Jean Anishere, SAN, articulated her support for the bill while highlighting certain ambiguities that must be resolved before it can be enacted. She pointed out specific provisions in the bill that require clarification and further refinement.

Retired Rear Admiral Ekwerre U. Ekwerre addressed concerns raised by the Nigerian Navy and advocated that the Navy should concentrate on defence, showcasing military strength, and conducting diplomatic operations within territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

He asserted that the Coast Guard should be responsible for enforcing maritime laws in the nation’s inland waters.

 Most stakeholders endorsed the establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard, they also called for careful consideration of the bill’s provisions to ensure clarity and effectiveness in its implementation.