By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — The Senate on Wednesday stepped down the consideration of a report on a bill seeking to establish the Nigeria Coast Guard, citing concerns over possible duplication of roles and conflict with the Nigerian Navy and other existing security agencies.
The report on the Nigeria Coast Guard (Establishment) Bill, 2026 (SB. 575) was presented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Sanni Wasiu Eshilokun (APC, Lagos Central), but President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, directed that it should not be considered.
The bill seeks to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard as a specialised security agency responsible for securing Nigeria’s maritime zones, enforcing relevant maritime laws, protecting lives and property, and enhancing coastal security.
Presenting the report, Eshilokun said the proposed legislation was designed to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime security architecture, support regional coastal security and ensure compliance with global maritime standards.
