Wilson said the directive was informed by the increasing incidence of illegal oil bunkering and its implications for national security, government revenue, maritime safety and environmental protection.
The Tugboat, Fuel Barges, and Seagoing Vessel Association of Nigeria (TUBAVS) has called for the immediate registration, verification and stricter regulation of all marine vessels and craft operating in Nigerian waters, saying the measure would help combat sea piracy, illegal oil bunkering and other maritime crimes.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Legal Adviser, Tonye D. Wilson, the association said the proposed nationwide exercise would strengthen efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to tackle criminal activities along Nigeria's waterways.
TUBAVS, which described itself as the umbrella body representing tugboat operators, fuel barge owners and other maritime stakeholders, said the initiative is aimed at improving marine safety, enhancing regulatory compliance and promoting professionalism within the sector.
According to the association, the proposed registration and verification exercise would cover all seagoing vessels and marine craft, including tankers, barges, tugboats, fishing vessels, workboats, houseboats, service boats, landing craft, patrol boats, and vessels engaged in fuel transportation, storage or ship-to-ship (STS) operations.
