The discussion commences with a reminder that a bill aimed at creating the Nigerian Coast Guard has successfully passed its second reading in the Nigerian Senate. This initiative, sponsored as a private member's bill by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun (APC-Lagos), recently sparked a debate during the Senate's plenary session regarding the fundamental principles of the proposed legislation.
In leading the debate, Senator Eshilokun articulated that the bill's objective is to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard, which would be tasked with the responsibility of securing Nigeria's maritime zones.
Firstly, the proposal constitutes a violation of due process. The bill intends to create a Coast Guard as a military entity and a segment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. It is inappropriate to establish a branch of the Armed Forces through a private member's bill within the National Assembly. The expansion of the Armed Forces should be an executive prerogative, requiring the consideration and endorsement of the Federal Executive Council. This matter exceeds the authority and capacity of an individual member of the National Assembly.
Secondly, the bill represents a significant overlap with existing institutions and their functions. The proposed Coast Guard would duplicate the responsibilities of the Nigerian Navy, as outlined in Armed Forces Cap 20, which elaborates on Section 217 of the Nigerian Constitution that establishes the Armed Forces and delineates their duties. The creation of the Coast Guard would result in a redundant agency that would squander resources and efforts.
Proponents of the Coast Guard contend that, unlike the Nigerian Navy, which serves as a 'fighting force,' the Coast Guard is intended to function as a civilian law enforcement body, tasked with enforcing maritime regulations and safeguarding natural resources and inland waters. However, it is important to note that the functions proposed in this bill are already being effectively managed by the Nigerian Navy, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the Marine Police. Additionally, the Nigerian Customs Service operates a Maritime Division.
The introduction of another agency is unlikely to enhance the current situation; rather, it may exacerbate existing inefficiencies. The Establishment Act of the Nigerian Navy already comprehensively addresses these responsibilities.