By Harriet Tornguvan
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities as part of efforts to enhance marine navigation, bolster national security, and unlock the vast potential of the country’s blue economy.
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), Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi, and his management team during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Matawalle stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency in expanding its capacity to provide critical hydrographic data for maritime operations and national development.
According to the minister, the NHA occupies a strategic position in advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests and strengthening the Gulf of Guinea’s maritime capabilities.
“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,” Matawalle said.
He explained that discussions during the meeting focused on measures to expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity, improve navigational safety, strengthen maritime security, and support sustainable development across the nation’s maritime sector.
The minister further noted that with existing policy frameworks and government support, Nigeria is well positioned to assume a leadership role in hydrographic development across West Africa.
Hydrography, which involves the measurement and mapping of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas, is regarded as critical to safe navigation, maritime security, environmental protection, and the effective management of marine resources.
Speaking during the visit, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi expressed appreciation to the minister for his support and leadership. He assured the Federal Government of the Agency’s commitment to collaborating with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to strengthen hydrographic resilience and improve service delivery.
Fadahunsi pledged that the NHA would continue to pursue an integrated approach to hydrographic development aimed at supporting national security objectives, enhancing maritime operations, and contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
The renewed commitment comes amid growing recognition of the importance of accurate hydrographic data in ensuring safe navigation, attracting maritime investments, and fostering sustainable economic activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea region.
