(Ecofin Agency) - Nigeria is looking to pass an anti-piracy law that will reduce the activities of pirates and other maritime offenders in the country, an official revealed on Monday.

Speaking on the progress of the law, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dakuku Peterside (photo), said, when passed, the bill will make Nigeria become the first African country to have a committed anti-piracy law. According to Peterside, the agency is currently working towards the rapid adoption of the executive bill, as the draft has already been sent to the Federal Ministry of Justice.

The Director-general added that the new bill will help the country boost surveillance and intelligence on Nigerian waters.

The Nigerian government has been making efforts to reinforce the maritime sector for economic growth.

Anita Fatunji