The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday welcomed the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Oyetola congratulated Disu on his elevation to the top police position, describing the appointment as well-earned and expressing confidence in his ability to provide strong and effective leadership for the nation’s security apparatus.

“I warmly felicitate with you on your appointment as Inspector-General of Police,” the minister said, noting that Disu’s record of professionalism and dedicated service gives assurance that he will further strengthen Nigeria’s security framework.

In his remarks, IGP Disu appreciated the minister for the support and goodwill, pledging to foster close collaboration with ministries and agencies whose responsibilities align with national security and economic advancement. He affirmed that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to support key sectors, including the maritime industry, through intelligence-driven operations and strategic partnerships.

Talks between both leaders centred on enhancing institutional cooperation between the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigeria Police Force, particularly in coordinating security efforts across Nigeria’s coastal areas and inland waterways.

They underscored the increasing strategic value of the maritime sector to national development, stressing that improved surveillance and stronger security measures are vital to safeguarding waterways and critical infrastructure.

Oyetola described the visit as timely, emphasising that inter-agency collaboration is crucial to the success of the federal government’s blue economy agenda. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to partnering with law enforcement and other security bodies to ensure that Nigeria’s waters remain secure and attractive for investment and sustainable exploitation.

“The maritime sector presents significant opportunities for economic diversification and employment generation,” he said. “However, unlocking these opportunities requires a secure and orderly environment supported by seamless cooperation among relevant agencies.”

IGP Disu reaffirmed the police force’s readiness to intensify its support for maritime security operations, including intelligence-led policing, routine patrols, and stronger enforcement against criminal activities along the waterways.

Both parties agreed to maintain continuous strategic engagement and operational coordination to improve surveillance capacity, rapid response, and information-sharing among agencies operating within Nigeria’s marine and coastal zones.