The Federal Government has reaffirmed its resolve to make hydrography a strategic national priority as part of efforts to strengthen maritime security, improve navigation safety and unlock greater economic opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy.
The commitment was restated by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, during a courtesy visit by 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 to the Minister’s office in Abuja.
Dr. Matawalle said the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, remains committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency and expanding Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to improve data generation and strengthen maritime operations.
According to the Minister, hydrography remains a critical component of national development, especially in enhancing marine transportation, defence planning and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
“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 stated.
He explained that discussions during the meeting centred on practical measures to expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity with the goal of improving navigational safety, reinforcing maritime security and promoting sustainable maritime development.
Dr. Matawalle further expressed confidence that with existing policy frameworks already in place, Nigeria is well positioned to assume a leading role in advancing hydrographic development across West Africa.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi commended the Minister for what he described as visionary leadership and pledged the Agency’s readiness to deepen collaboration with relevant ministries, departments and agencies.
He assured that the National Hydrographic Agency would continue to pursue an integrated approach aimed at strengthening hydrographic resilience and delivering improved outcomes for the maritime sector.
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