The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s hydrography system as part of efforts to enhance marine navigation, national defence, maritime security, and the growth of the blue economy.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. 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 members of his management team during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Matawalle said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency and expanding Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to improve maritime operations through the provision of accurate and reliable data.
According to the minister, the NHA occupies a strategic position in advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests and strengthening maritime capabilities across the Gulf of Guinea.
“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 noted that discussions during the meeting focused on measures aimed at expanding Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity to improve navigational safety, bolster maritime security, and promote sustainable maritime development.
He stressed that with existing policy frameworks and government support, Nigeria is well positioned to assume a leading role in the advancement of hydrography across West Africa.
The minister further reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to make hydrography a national priority, describing it as a critical component of economic development, maritime governance, and national security.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi expressed appreciation to the minister for his support and visionary leadership. He assured the Federal Government of the Agency’s commitment to collaborating closely with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to strengthen hydrographic resilience and deliver improved outcomes for the nation’s maritime sector.
The National Hydrographic Agency is responsible for the collection, management, and dissemination of hydrographic data used in marine navigation, maritime safety, and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s maritime resources.
