The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has revealed that the Federal Government is contemplating the establishment of coast guards to ensure the security of Nigeria’s coastline. This announcement was made during the 32nd Iragbiji day celebration in Iragbiji, the minister’s hometown in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State.
Mr. Oyetola emphasized the deliberate efforts being made to enhance the security of the marine environment, including the deployment of security equipment to safeguard the waterways. He further disclosed that the government is actively considering the establishment of coast guards, specifically designed to ensure the safety of the nation’s coastline.
Highlighting the significance of securing the coastline, he stated, “We have not less than 853 kilometres of coastline in Nigeria and about 10,000 perimeters of inland waterways. If we want to ensure coastal tourism, we must provide adequate security. We are collaborating with the navy, marine police, and other relevant agencies to bolster the security of our waterways.”
In his address, Mr. Oyetola commended the traditional ruler of Iragbiji, Abdulrosheed Olabomi, for leveraging the Iragbiji day celebration to attract development to the town over the past 32 years.
Expressing dismay, the minister condemned the repurposing of the Sustainable Development Goal-Focused Skilled Acquisition Centre, constructed by the Federal Government in the town, into a football camp by the state government. He stressed, “The centre is meant for the acquisition of skills for youth, and I want the state government to recognize that this project, initiated by the Federal Government, is intended for the benefit of youth in acquiring essential skills.”
In his statements, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Abdulrosheed Olabomi, revealed that the community has been utilizing funds generated from the annual celebration to support indigent students in the town. He disclosed that the community covered the examination fees for 50 indigent students, enabling them to sit for the West African Examinations Council, National Examination Council, and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
Furthermore, the traditional ruler called upon the town’s sons and daughters to rally behind the community, ensuring that more indigent students could benefit from such initiatives. He also lauded the continual support of the minister towards the town.
This initiative marks a pivotal step towards enhancing the security and development of Nigeria’s waterways, reflecting a proactive approach by the government in tackling maritime security challenges. It highlights a concerted effort towards safeguarding the nation’s coastal regions, encouraging sustainable economic activities and promoting tourism.
NAN
