PC-NCG commends Senate urges fast-track of Coast Guard Bill for blue economy growthThe Provisional Committee for the Establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard (PC-NCG) on Friday commended the Senate for advancing the Nigeria Coast Guard Establishment Bill.The committee described the presentation of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport’s report as a major milestone toward strengthening Nigeria’s maritime governance.A statement by the committee’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, quoted Chief Executive and Accounting Officer, Capt. Noah Ichaba, as praising the bill’s legislative progress.The committee noted that the bill has passed key legislative stages and now awaits final passage by the Senate.It said the Senate deferred consideration of the committee’s report to allow further consultations on the proposed Coast Guard’s roles, funding and relationship with the Nigerian Navy and Marine Police.According to the PC-NCG, the move reflects the Senate’s commitment to enacting a comprehensive law that strengthens maritime security without overlapping institutional responsibilities.The committee, however, urged lawmakers to conclude the legislative process promptly, describing the Coast Guard as critical to protecting Nigeria’s blue economy and maritime assets.Ichaba said while the SPOMO Act 2019 provides a legal framework against piracy, Nigeria requires a dedicated institution to enforce maritime laws effectively.He said the proposed Coast Guard would serve as a specialised civilian maritime law enforcement agency handling search and rescue, fisheries enforcement and marine environmental protection.According to him, the agency would also undertake other non-military maritime security duties, allowing the Nigerian Navy to focus on its constitutional defence responsibilities.Ichaba said the legislation would strengthen inter-agency collaboration, improve maritime safety and help combat illegal fishing, pollution and transnational maritime crimes.He added that improved maritime security would unlock Nigeria’s blue economy potential by creating a safer environment for investment and economic activities.The committee recalled writing to the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, and other lawmakers in July 2023, urging consideration of the bill.It noted that the bill, sponsored by Sen. Wasiu Sanni Eshilokun, passed second reading on October 15, 2024, before being referred to the Senate Committee on Marine Transport.The PC-NCG said the bill also received strong stakeholder support during its public hearing before the committee submitted its report to the Senate.The committee expressed confidence that the remaining legislative process would be concluded without delay, paving the way for the establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard. The committee’s reaction is sequel to deliberation of the bill by the Senate on Thursday and subsequent referral to the Senate’s committee on Marine Transport for further legislative work.
