Tomorrow, Thursday 22nd of August, 2024 is day that eggheads in maritime subsector of the nation’s economy will gather to brainstorm on maritime security with regard to drugs smuggling and human trafficking.
The event is being put together by the Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria (MASPAN) and the Alumni of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) over rising incidents of drug smuggling and human trafficking in the maritime domain, which pose a significant threat to shipping operations, seafarers, and the country’s blue economy.
The conference is to hold at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos and it will to bring together stakeholders to discuss and find solutions to these issues.
The event is expected to be chaired by the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Gboyega Oyetola, aims to align with critical agencies to reduce, if not eradicate, drug and human smuggling/trafficking in the maritime domain, penalize perpetrators, and ensure the industry is not deprived of its growth potentials.
Key areas of focus will include existing legal frameworks, inter-agency cooperation, and the capacity of responsible agencies to measure their effectiveness in the maritime space.
The event has secured the support of the National Drugs and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Embassies of the United States, Philippines, and France, as well as international and local shipping companies.
Stakeholders with interest are urged to contact the committee to book their seats, as the event is strictly by invitation and registration.
The conference seeks to arrive at workable solutions and mandate a working group to ensure the actualization of the resolutions reached, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s blue economy.