Navy Chief Ogalla Advocates for Special Maritime Courts and Greater Community Involvement to Strengthen Blue Economy
In a significant move to bolster the nation’s maritime security and advance the Blue Economy, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has proposed the establishment of special courts dedicated to maritime crimes. He also emphasized the importance of community engagement in creating a safer maritime environment.
Speaking on Friday at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS) during the University of Ibadan’s 3rd Distinguished Personality Lecture, Vice Admiral Ogalla delivered a lecture titled “Role of the Nigerian Navy in Combating Maritime Crimes for Enhanced Blue Economy.”
In his address, he outlined a comprehensive strategy to combat maritime crimes, which includes judicial reforms, public awareness campaigns, and socio-economic initiatives aimed at reducing crime in Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Vice Admiral Ogalla argued that the creation of specialized maritime crime courts would lead to a more focused and knowledgeable judicial process, ensuring consistent application of laws and sentences. This, he noted, would help eliminate disparities and promote fairness in the handling of maritime crime cases.
“By establishing special courts dedicated to maritime crimes, we can ensure more effective and efficient justice delivery, leading to better outcomes for law enforcement,” Ogalla said. He added that these courts would help reduce delays in legal proceedings, alleviate congestion in general courts, and increase public trust in the justice system.
In addition to judicial reforms, Vice Admiral Ogalla called for a nationwide advocacy campaign to increase public awareness and support for the Navy’s efforts in combating maritime crimes and promoting the Blue Economy. He emphasized the need for federal, state, and local communication platforms to build trust and understanding between the Nigerian Navy and local communities.
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Ogalla also highlighted the critical role of addressing socio-economic factors that contribute to maritime crimes. He stressed that community engagement, educational initiatives, and partnerships with key stakeholders are essential in tackling the root causes of these crimes.
“The success of our efforts to combat maritime crimes and foster the growth of the Blue Economy depends on the active participation and support of local communities,” Ogalla stated. He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to working towards a safer and more prosperous maritime environment and called on all stakeholders to support these initiatives.
Vice Admiral Ogalla’s proposals mark a strategic shift in Nigeria’s approach to maritime security, reflecting a broader vision for a sustainable Blue Economy that benefits all Nigerians.
