The Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC) has called for a temporary suspension of the proposed bill to establish a Nigerian Coast Guard, citing concerns over potential duplication of functions, inter-agency conflict, and financial burden on the federal government.
This was disclosed in a position paper signed by SEREC Head of Research, Fwdr. Eugene Nweke on 3rd June, 2025.
According to SEREC, the Nigerian maritime space is a complex domain with multiple agencies operating within it, including the Nigerian Navy, NIMASA, NIWA, Nigeria Police Marine Unit, Nigeria Customs Marine Unit, and Nigeria Drugs Law Enforcement Agency. While some argue that a Coast Guard would enhance maritime safety, environmental protection, and law enforcement, others contend that it would duplicate existing functions, create potential conflicts, and incur significant costs.
Eugene Nweke, emphasised the need for a balanced approach, stating that Nigeria’s maritime space could benefit from a Coast Guard that specializes in coastal security and law enforcement. However, he stressed that concerns about duplication of functions, cost implications, and effective coordination with existing agencies must be addressed.
Supporters of the proposed Coast Guard argue that it would enhance maritime safety, strengthen environmental protection, conduct search and rescue operations, and enforce civil maritime laws. But SEREC points out that many of these functions are currently within the mandates of existing agencies.
Moving forward , SEREC recommended a thorough analysis of the proposed Coast Guard Bill, stakeholder engagement, and a clear definition of the Coast Guard’s roles and responsibilities. A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is also necessary to determine the feasibility of establishing a Coast Guard.
Pending the outcome of this analysis, SEREC has urged that the proposed bill for the creation of a Nigeria Coast Guard be stepped down. The organisation emphasised the importance of prioritising national interest over pecuniary or group interests in the maritime industry.
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