FG to launch maritime security project in June

The Hon. Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, on Monday disclosed that the Federal Government would in June 2021 launch a maritime security strategy project to address maritime domain security challenges.

Amaechi made the disclosure while hosting the Belgium Ambassador to Nigeria, Daniel Bertrand, who paid the minister on a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.

The minister noted that the insecurity in the sector was quite complex, but that the federal government would soon take off with a solution to that crisis. He added that: “The Navy, Police, Army and State Security Service are involved.”

A statement signed by Anastasia Ogbonna, Acting Director (Press and Public Relations), Ministry of Transportation, quoted the Minister as saying that if successful, maritime insecurity would be addressed while noting that countries in the Gulf of Guinea may elect to adopt it.

“65 percent or 75 percent of crime comes from our waters and if we are able to eliminate it, then we will be making a lot of progress.

“If you are on air, you will see what is happening in the water. If you are inside the waters, you will be able to respond. A helicopter has the capacity to drop in the naval men when they see anything suspicious,” he assured.

He further assured of his willingness to partner and compare notes with anyone who wants information for the purpose of securing the Gulf of Guinea.

Ambassador Bertrand had earlier presented a letter to the Minister requesting the support of the Nigerian government for the Belgium candidate for the position at the International Maritime Organization ( IMO).

He promised his country’s readiness to support the implementation of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.