The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, says the Federal Government is committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA).
This is contained in a statement on Wednesday, by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil.
Matawalle said this when he received the newly appointed Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the NHA, Rear Admiral Olumide Fadahunsi, on a courtesy visit.
He assured that the government would strengthen Nigeria’s hydrography system, with a view to enabling the provision of effective and critical data for marine navigation, national defence, and other marine activities.
He noted that the NHA played a strategic role in advancing Nigeria’s and the Gulf of Guinea’s maritime capabilities through several key functions which were essential for the effective management and utilisation of marine resources.
“The Agency continues to support Nigeria’s Blue Economy agenda by facilitating the sustainable use of ocean resources, promoting maritime trade, and driving economic growth through innovative hydrographic solutions and services,” the minister said.
Ealier, the NHA boss, thanked the minister for his visionary leadership and steadfast support.
He assured of the agency’s commitment to working closely with relevant government ministries, departments, and agencies to promote an integrated intergovernmental approach to hydrographic resilience and drive greater successes.
Discussions during the visit focused on measures to support and expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities.
This is with a view to enhance navigational safety, strengthen maritime security, and support sustainable maritime development in the country
