The Nigerian Senate has taken a major step towards bolstering the nation’s maritime security with the advancement of a bill seeking to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard.
On Tuesday, the bill passed its second reading, marking significant progress in efforts to improve the safety and monitoring of Nigeria’s maritime zones.
The sponsor of the bill, Senator Wasiu Eshilokun (APC-Lagos), led the debate on the general principles of the proposal during the plenary session.
In his presentation, Senator Eshilokun explained that the bill aims to establish a Nigerian Coast Guard responsible for protecting the country’s maritime regions.
He highlighted the importance of the coast guard working as a specialized unit alongside the Nigerian Navy, especially during times of conflict. This would ensure the country remains prepared for any maritime security threats and enhance overall national defense.
The proposed coast guard would also play a crucial role in enforcing laws within Nigerian waters. Eshilokun noted that the coast guard’s responsibilities would extend to enforcing regulations to protect lives and property, ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s vast waterways.
He also emphasized that the establishment of the coast guard is timely and aligns with the government’s broader development agenda.
“The current administration is expanding all economic scope and space for maximum national benefits,” Eshilokun said, underscoring how the maritime sector presents untapped opportunities that could further Nigeria’s economic diversification goals.
The bill received widespread support from other senators, with many emphasizing its importance in addressing security and economic concerns. Senator Victor Umeh (LP-Anambra) remarked, “we need our coast guards; let their duties be properly defined so that customs, navy, anybody will do its own work as assigned to it by the act.”
Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP-FCT) added her support, stressing the economic impact of illegal activities in Nigeria’s waters. “Annually, we lose N35 billion to illegal fishing. That can be stopped with coast guards,” she said, underlining the financial benefits of the proposed law.
Further support came from Senator Sunday Karimi (APC-Kogi), who pointed out the rising global security challenges, stating that “with the high risk of waterways, coast guard is something that is urgently needed.”
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, highlighted the bill’s role in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and strengthening national defense. He assured that the establishment of the coast guard would not only safeguard Nigeria’s interests at sea but also prevent any threats to the nation’s naval defenses.
