The Maritime Operation Coordinating Board Act (Amendment) Bill Etc (HB 1056) passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
Leading the debate on the Bill, Hon.Abdussamad Dasuki (APC:Sokoto) stated that the proposed amendments would reconstitute the maritime operation coordinating board for effective control of all maritime operations in Nigerian’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, create a maritime security fund and establish anti-piracy offences.
Speaking further Hon. Dasuki noted that the complete absence of an anti-piracy law made the enforcement of the Cabotage Act (2003) and the NIMASA Act (2007) incredibly ineffective. He however drew attention to stakeholders’ complaints on the lack of legal framework and competent jurisdiction to try all maritime related offences as being largely attributable for the high rate of sea piracy and robberies on the waterways.
In conclusion he said while there is unanimity among shipping practitioners that sea piracy cannot be totally eradicated, it is also accepted that all relevant stakeholders can minimize the menace with concerted efforts. For instance, in recommending solutions to anti-piracy challenges, NIMASA recently proposed a legal framework that would prescribe stiffer sanctions and a more vigorous military-led patrol as well as a better intelligence gathering network would be required.
The Bill has been referred to the Committee on Maritime, Habour and Waterways for further legislative input.
