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

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

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

While speaking at the event, Dr. Agbakoba described the bill as timely but emphasised the need for professional input to address certain concerns within the draft. He expressed his willingness to assist in this process.

Former NIMASA DG, Dr. Ade Dosunmu, who also spoke at the hearing, 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-kilometer coastline using more adaptable resources.

He argued that successful maritime nations including India, Singapore, China, the United States, Japan, Egypt, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, have well-defined roles for both the Navy and the 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 defense, 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.

In summary, while the majority of 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.