The Federal Government has disclosed comprehensive plans to expand the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, popularly known as the Deep Blue Project, to vulnerable coastal and maritime corridors across the country, including the Bakassi axis.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the development on Thursday during a graduation ceremony for maritime security personnel.
He stated that the planned expansion is part of the administration’s strategic efforts to further strengthen Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and protect the nation’s blue economy.
Oyetola emphasized that the implementation of the globally-acclaimed Deep Blue Project which integrates air, land, and sea assets alongside advanced electronic surveillance systems has successfully secured Nigerian waters, resulting in zero piracy incidents for more than four years.
According to the minister, expanding the project to newly identified vulnerable corridors will consolidate these security gains.
He noted that safer waters have already led to increased shipping traffic, a significant reduction in insurance premiums for ships coming into Nigeria, enhanced port activities, and greater regional trade flows across the Gulf of Guinea.
The Ministry also noted that alongside securing these corridors, the government is prioritizing the local fisheries and aquaculture sectors to boost job creation and curb seafood imports nationwide.
