By Chiamaka Ajeamo

Ahead of its take-off the proposed Maritime Security Agency, MASECA, is set to tackle militancy and other vices in the oil producing zone while creating about 50,000 jobs to boost activities in the petroleum industry.

Acting Director General of MASECA, Mr. Jacob Ovweghre, who disclosed this in Abuja, said the proposed agency would play a major role in boosting Nigeria’s crude oil output, as it would help promote peace in the area of operations of majority of the oil and gas companies.

According to him, the agency, when approved by the National Assembly, would contribute in reducing unemployment and crime in the Niger Delta region.

He stated: “It is against this backdrop that we call on the federal government to flag off the operation of this all important agency that will ensure the protection of pipelines and other  oil installations  to avoid revenue lost to the federal government.

“A maritime security strategy should therefore move on from only targeting the foot solders of oil bunkering, piracy, and maritime criminals by putting more pressure on its organizers, as the profits are ultimately consumed and invested on land.

“We can also do more to offer viable economic alternatives to coastal communities who are in a better position to end maritime crime simply by refusing to protect criminal interests, and police illegal goods that are often ultimately destined for developed country markets.”