Oyetola, Stakeholders Support Coast Guard Bill During Public Hearing

• Minister Adegboyega Oyetola supports the Nigerian Coast Guard (Establishment) Bill, emphasizing its importance for maritime safety and economic growth
• The proposed Coast Guard agency aims to enforce civil maritime laws and protect Nigeria’s extensive maritime domain from illegal activities

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, along with other stakeholders, expressed support for the Nigerian Coast Guard (Establishment) Bill, 2024, during a public hearing held at the National Assembly.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun (APC-Lagos), seeks to establish a specialized Coast Guard agency under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

This agency will ensure maritime safety, protect the environment, and enforce civil maritime laws.

At the hearing, Oyetola highlighted the critical need for a dedicated Coast Guard to safeguard Nigeria’s extensive maritime domain.

He described the initiative as a significant step toward enhancing the nation’s maritime economy and protecting its waterways.

“The establishment of the Coast Guard is pivotal to our maritime sector’s growth and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Oyetola stated.

He praised the National Assembly, particularly the Senate Committee led by Senator Eshinlokun, for advancing the legislative process.

The proposed bill received widespread backing from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, youth groups, and regional socio-cultural associations. These organizations all stressed its importance in addressing maritime security and fostering economic development in Nigeria.

The Coast Guard is envisioned as a transformative entity that will strengthen the country’s maritime capabilities and ensure the safety and sustainability of its marine resources.