The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Nigerian Navy, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has led a joint sitting of three Senate committees to develop stronger security and intelligence strategies against rising criminal activities across Nigeria’s waterways.

The meeting, held on Wednesday at the New Senate Building, brought together the chairmen of the Senate Committees on Marine and Blue Economy, Senator Wasiu Sanni-Eshinlokun, and National Security and Intelligence, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi.

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Discussions focused on practical measures to tackle maritime crimes, including sea robbery, illegal bunkering, oil theft and kidnapping, which continue to threaten security and economic activities along the country’s waterways.

Speaking at the session, Daniel described maritime insecurity as a major threat to national security, economic growth and environmental sustainability.

He also warned that criminal activities in the maritime sector could discourage legitimate investment and undermine efforts to develop the country’s marine economy.

While commending the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies for their efforts, the Ogun East senator stressed that military operations alone would not guarantee lasting security.

He called for broader interventions to address poverty, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure and limited economic opportunities in riverine communities, noting the importance of tackling conditions that could contribute to criminal activities.

The joint committee identified improved inter-agency collaboration, modern surveillance technology, youth empowerment, stronger legislative frameworks and effective oversight as key priorities for securing Nigerian waterways.

The lawmakers agreed that a comprehensive response must combine security enforcement with community engagement and economic development, rather than relying solely on military operations.

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The joint committee is expected to develop actionable recommendations for consideration by the National Assembly, although specific proposals and implementation timelines were not disclosed in the report.