Tinubu prioritises hydrography, says Matawalle

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has declared that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed hydrography at the forefront of Nigeria’s maritime development agenda. Matawalle made the statement on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency, […]

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has declared that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed hydrography at the forefront of Nigeria’s maritime development agenda.

Matawalle made the statement on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi, who led a management delegation on a courtesy visit.

In a statement issued by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister said the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to enhance marine navigation, support defence operations, and drive ocean-based economic growth.

He described the National Hydrographic Agency as a key institution in advancing Nigeria’s maritime aspirations, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea, where maritime security and resource management remain critical concerns.

According to Matawalle, the agency plays a pivotal role in the country’s Blue Economy agenda, which seeks to expand maritime trade and promote the sustainable utilisation of ocean resources.

He noted that, under the policy direction of the Renewed Hope administration, Nigeria is well-positioned to assume a leadership role in hydrography across West Africa.

The minister assured that government support for the agency would be sustained to improve navigational safety, strengthen maritime security, and enhance scientific data generation for national development.

In his remarks, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi commended Matawalle for his continued support and visionary leadership.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working closely with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and build a more resilient hydrographic system.

According to both parties, discussions during the meeting centred on strategies to expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity in line with global maritime standards and the nation’s development objectives. :::