The Deputy Governors at the Summit.
By Anietie Akpan
The Nigeria International Coastal Border Platform has declared that all Nigerian laws, including the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act, should be harmonized for more efficiency in implementation.
This position was part of the 10 point Communique issued at the end the inaugural summit of the Platform held on Friday August 8, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State by the Deputy Governors of all member States (except Rivers State) and was formerly declared opened by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.
The communique was endorsed by the Deputy Governors of Bayelsa State/Chairman of Platform, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme; Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami; Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey; and Representative of Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Daba Mololaji M. for and on behalf of the Nigeria International Coastal Border Platform.
Other resolutions at the Summit include: “establishment of a workable Community Surveillance and Intelligence Sharing Framework in all coastal security operations and strengthen the role of local security committees, involving traditional rulers, women leaders, youth groups, and religious bodies.
“The need for awareness on Maritime Safety and Security, to foster a culture of Compliance with National and International Laws.
“The need for a healthy Maritime Environment and effective maritime border governance to combat pollution, protect mangroves and prevent degradation that could lead to economic hardship and insecurity”.
It was further resolved that the Platform should take advantage of the African Integrated Border Governance Strategy and the African Continental Free Trade Zone to boost cross-border trade between coastal communities and neighbouring countries.
Dedicate “a percentage of revenue from maritime taxes and crude oil exports to coastal security funding.
“Investing in Maritime Transport Services to stimulate economic activities between coastal communities and neighbouring countries.
“Integrate climate change resilience in Maritime Border Policies.
“Increase provision of Social Infrastructure in Coastal Communities”.
It also called for the establishment of a cross-border platform for regular engagement between coastal communities and neighbouring countries.
