Senate postpones public hearing on Nigerian Coast Guard Bill indefinitely

The Senate Committee on Marine Transport has announced the indefinite postponement of a scheduled public hearing on the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill.

Originally set for November 7, the session was slated to take place at the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, with key stakeholders in attendance to address pressing issues in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The bill sponsored by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun (APC- Lagos), has the overriding intent to enact legislation that sought to contribute to the country’s security, with a special focus on the country’s maritime interests and regional coastal security.

He said that it was also to ensure adherence to global norms and standards as they relate to maritime security.

However, a statement issued by the Committee Clerk, Dauda Bukar, on Thursday cited the recent passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja as the primary reason for the delay.

Lagbaja died on Tuesday night at the age of 56.

This marks the second postponement of the hearing, which was previously scheduled for Wednesday, November 5.

Though no new date has been set for the public hearing, the Senate Committee has assured stakeholders that discussions on the bill remain a priority.

The statement read, “I am directed to inform all stakeholders and the General Public that the one-day Public Hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport National Assembly on The Nigerian Coast Guard Bill scheduled to hold on Thursday 7th November 2024 at the National Assembly Library & Resource Centre has been Postponed indefinitely.

“New date will be announced in due course. This is largely because of the state of mourning for the Demise of the Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”