FG Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Hydrography for Maritime Security, Blue Economy
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to making hydrography a national priority as part of efforts to enhance maritime security, improve navigation safety, and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, made this known while receiving the newly appointed Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA), O.O. Fadahunsi, alongside members of the agency’s management team during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Matawalle stated that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency and strengthening Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to provide critical maritime data for navigation, defence operations, and economic development.
According to the minister, the NHA occupies a strategic position in advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests and enhancing the capabilities of countries within the Gulf of Guinea region.
“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.
Matawalle explained that discussions during the meeting focused on expanding Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity to improve navigational safety, strengthen maritime security, and support sustainable maritime development.
He noted that with existing policy frameworks and government support, Nigeria is well positioned to emerge as a regional leader in hydrographic development and maritime data management across West Africa.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi expressed appreciation to the minister for his support and leadership, pledging the agency’s commitment to collaborating with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to promote an integrated approach to hydrographic resilience.
He assured that the National Hydrographic Agency would continue to pursue initiatives aimed at enhancing maritime safety, supporting national development goals, and delivering greater value to Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The renewed commitment comes amid growing recognition of hydrography as a critical component of maritime governance, security operations, ocean resource management, and the development of the nation’s blue economy.
