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Published by A. I. Noah, Sarah, Christy David, Comr. George, Blessing | ICC Reporting | Maritime Service | Metro Plus | Security Agencies | Amssa | Safety | News
The Executive Flag officer Commanding The African Maritime Safety And Security Agency (AMSSA)
ISA NOAH AMWE, is a Global maritime safety and security Expert, Honourable Captain who has had a strong background in serving across the five regions of Africa, with a proven Maritime track record in Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific State. His experience spans political, strategic, and operational phases in various sectors, demonstrating a wide-reaching impact across diverse international contexts in the global maritime space.
Talking about peace, Safety, security and Coorporation and how it can benefit the common Nigerian Citizen to enable Nigeria benefits from its Blue Economy potentials in this 21st century Peace, Safety, and Security in Maritime Context. In the maritime domain, peace is foundational to fostering stable and productive global and regional relations, allowing for uninterrupted trade, transportation, and economic growth. Nigeria, with its vast coastline, must focus on ensuring peace on its waters to encourage secure shipping lanes, protect its vast natural resources, and create a stable environment for both local and foreign investments in the maritime sector.
Safety on the seas, particularly regarding navigation and vessel operations, directly affects the efficiency of maritime trade. By investing in safety measures, including better navigation systems, the development of modern ports, and emergency response capabilities, Nigeria ensures that its maritime industry functions at optimal levels. This not only prevents accidents but also increases Nigeria’s credibility as a secure partner in global shipping and logistics networks.
Security, particularly in combating piracy, illegal fishing, and smuggling, is another critical aspect. The maritime security of a nation directly impacts its ability to safeguard economic resources. In Nigeria's case, ensuring secure waters is vital to protecting its offshore oil, gas, and fishing industries, which are integral to the Blue Economy. Strong maritime security measures can mitigate the risks associated with piracy and other maritime crimes, attracting international businesses and improving trade efficiency.
COOPERATION: REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION
Cooperation with neighboring countries and international maritime organizations is essential to tackling the challenges of piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental degradation. For Nigeria, cooperating with regional partners within frameworks such as the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC) and the African Union (AU), as well as engaging with international bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO), will help to share resources, knowledge, and technologies. Collaborative efforts ensure the security of regional waters, contribute to the sustainable management of marine resources, and improve overall maritime governance.
BENEFITS TO THE COMMON NIGERIAN CITIZEN
Economic Growth and Job Creation: A secure and well-managed maritime sector can create thousands of jobs for Nigerians. These jobs span shipping, logistics, maritime security, port management, tourism, and fisheries. By investing in maritime safety and security, the Nigerian government can provide stable employment opportunities for citizens, especially in coastal communities, thus reducing poverty and boosting local economies.
Trade and Business Expansion: A peaceful and secure maritime environment facilitates smoother trade and better market access for Nigerian goods. Increased international trade and better regional integration can create a wider range of products and services for Nigerian citizens, leading to increased economic activity and lower costs for goods. For the Nigerian citizen, this means a more robust and diverse economy.
Sustainable Resource Management: The Blue Economy offers the potential for sustainable management of marine resources like fish, seaweed, and even offshore energy sources. By ensuring peace, safety, and security in the maritime space, Nigeria can protect its natural marine resources and ensure they continue to provide economic benefits for future generations. The sustainable use of these resources benefits not only the environment but also the livelihoods of citizens reliant on fishing and other marine industries.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Services: As Nigeria invests in improving maritime safety and security, there is likely to be an accompanying improvement in infrastructure such as ports, harbors, and coastal areas. This, in turn, benefits the common Nigerian citizen by providing better public services, improved transport systems, and more effective logistical networks. These improvements would also enhance the overall business climate, leading to more affordable and accessible goods and services.
Regional and Global Reputation: A well-secured and prosperous maritime sector would enhance Nigeria’s global standing. It would attract international investment, foster better diplomatic relationships, and position Nigeria as a regional leader in maritime trade and security. This would, in turn, benefit the Nigerian people by ensuring that their country remains competitive and influential on the global stage, leading to increased wealth and opportunities.
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According to ICC News reporter's, journalists in Abuja FCT, with the Honourable Captain Isa Noah Amwe’s emphasis on peace, safety, security, and cooperation in the maritime sector offers a transformative pathway for Nigeria. These pillars are essential for unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s Blue Economy, which, if harnessed effectively, will provide sustainable economic growth, job creation, and a better quality of life for the common Nigerian citizen.
Through strategic investments in maritime security and international collaboration, Nigeria can position itself as a key player in the global maritime community, ultimately benefiting its citizens and contributing to long-term prosperity.
