The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to enhance marine navigation, improve maritime security and support the growth of the nation’s blue economy.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, stated this while receiving the newly appointed Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA), Olugbode Oyetola Fadahunsi, and members of his management team during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by chief information officer, Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, the minister said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency in enhancing the country’s capacity to provide critical hydrographic data for maritime operations.
Matawalle noted that the agency plays a strategic role in advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting sustainable economic activities linked to the nation’s marine resources.
“The NHA plays a strategic role in advancing Nigeria’s and the Gulf of Guinea’s maritime capabilities. By facilitating the sustainable use of ocean resources, promoting maritime trade and driving economic growth through innovative hydrographic solutions, the agency is central to our blue economy agenda,” he said.
The minister disclosed that discussions during the meeting focused on measures to expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity, improve navigational safety, strengthen maritime security and support sustainable maritime development.
He added that existing policy frameworks had positioned Nigeria to assume a more prominent role in hydrographic development across West Africa.
In his remarks, Fadahunsi thanked the minister for the support given to the agency and pledged to work closely with relevant ministries, departments and agencies to strengthen hydrographic services in the country.
He said the agency would continue to pursue collaboration aimed at improving hydrographic resilience and enhancing maritime operations.
Hydrography, which involves the measurement and mapping of oceans, seas and other bodies of water, is considered critical to safe navigation, maritime security, environmental protection and the development of the blue economy.
Nigeria has in recent years sought to improve its hydrographic capabilities as part of broader efforts to maximise the economic potential of its maritime domain.
