The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime security and safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure as essential components of Nigeria’s economic stability and energy security.

This position was conveyed in a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, , by the Delta State Commandant, Commandant Chinedu F. Igbo, during the opening ceremony of the 2nd International Conference on Maritime, Trade and Transport organised by the .

The conference, themed “The Maritime Sector: Harnessing the Potentials, Challenges and Future Trends,” is taking place at the Conference Centre from 24th to 27th May, 2026. The event provides a strategic platform for stakeholders to deliberate on the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry and emerging security concerns within the sector.

Speaking on behalf of the Commandant General, Commandant Igbo stated that Nigeria’s maritime domain possesses enormous economic potential but continues to face significant security threats, including piracy, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and attacks on port and offshore infrastructure.

He explained that the conference theme aligns with the statutory responsibilities of the NSCDC as provided under the NSCDC Act of 2003, as amended in 2007, particularly in the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure such as oil and gas pipelines, ports, jetties, power facilities, and communication installations.

According to him, the leadership of Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi has continued to strengthen the Corps through reforms focused on professionalism, intelligence-driven operations, personnel training, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.

He further disclosed that the Corps’ Marine Unit, Anti-Vandal Unit, and Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit are being repositioned to proactively tackle evolving security challenges within the maritime environment.

Commandant Igbo stressed that ensuring security within the maritime sector requires sustained collaboration among government agencies, private sector operators, academic institutions, and international partners.

The NSCDC commended the for organising the conference and reiterated its readiness to work closely with all relevant stakeholders in promoting a secure, resilient, and prosperous maritime sector capable of supporting Nigeria’s economic growth and national development.

The conference also featured technical sessions, scholarly paper presentations, and an induction ceremony into the , presided over by its National President, .

Among the dignitaries present at the event were the immediate past Corps Marshal of the , Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, alongside other notable stakeholders in the maritime, transport, and logistics sectors.