The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged stakeholders to back the establishment of a Nigerian Coast Guard, describing it as crucial to safeguarding the nation’s maritime resources and ensuring economic and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at a public hearing convened by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport on Thursday, Mr Oyetola underscored the importance of the proposed legislation, which seeks to formalise the creation of the specialised body.
The minister pointed to Nigeria’s extensive coastline, spanning more than 850 kilometres, as a significant economic asset that also faces considerable threats, including pollution, overfishing, and unsustainable resource exploitation.
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Mr Oyetola explained that the Nigerian Coast Guard would play a pivotal role in mitigating these risks while promoting maritime safety and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
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