Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola has sought the collaboration of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) through the newly appointed acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu in securing Nigeria’s vast coastal and inland waterways.
Oyetola who received Disu at his residence emphasized that coordinated operations and enhanced surveillance are now essential to protecting the maritime domain, which he identified as a critical pillar of national prosperity.
During the discussions, Dr. Oyetola described the synergy between his ministry and law enforcement as the cornerstone of the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda.
He noted that the maritime sector’s potential for economic diversification and job creation can only be unlocked if the government can guarantee safety and order through seamless inter-agency cooperation.
The Minister maintained that the ministry is fully committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s waters remain secure and conducive to both domestic and international investment.
Responding to the Minister’s charge, IGP Tunji Disu reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s readiness to deploy intelligence-led policing and intensified patrols to combat criminal activities on the waterways.
Disu highlighted that the force’s operational support would focus on improving response capacity and expanding surveillance coverage. By integrating police intelligence with maritime oversight, the new partnership seeks to create a more robust enforcement mechanism against piracy and other illicit maritime trades.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to sustain a regular strategic dialogue and establish formal information-sharing mechanisms.
This operational coordination is expected to strengthen the security of critical maritime assets and ensure that the blue economy becomes a sustainable driver of the Nigerian economy.
Dr. Oyetola also took the opportunity to congratulate Disu on his appointment, expressing total confidence that his professional track record would significantly strengthen the nation’s overall security architecture.