The Marine Equipment Owners and Leasers Association of Nigeria (MEOLAN) has appealed for urgent action from the Rivers State government and security agencies against rising piracy in the waterways, in a rallying cry for security and economic stability.
Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Monday, the President of the association, Hope Kuku, lamented that unchecked criminal activities on the waterways pose a significant threat not only to the safety of marine operators but also to the nation’s economic landscape.
Kuku highlighted the severe impact sea piracy has on their operations, stating that members are facing increasing harassment and violent extortion, while crews have endured threats and have even been taken hostage and forced to pay ransoms for passage on waterways that are supposed to be secure.
He hinted that recent incidents, particularly in areas like Onne and Okujagu, have been alarming, with vessels being targeted relentlessly, raising fears over the safety of maritime trade and its implications for the economy.
The MEOLAN President stated that while the association ensures compliance with regulations set forth by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), these efforts are in vain if the underlying issue of piracy is left unaddressed.
The association warned that the integrity of their operations and the safety of their members remain at risk, necessitating immediate governmental intervention to secure the waterways.
They argued that these routes, which belong to the government, should serve as safe passageways for legitimate trade rather than being overrun by criminals.
Meanwhile, Kuku called on the Rivers State Government, Inspector General of Police, Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Brigade Commander of the 6 Amphibious Division, Bori Camp, Port Harcourt, and the Area Commander of the Eastern Naval Command to come to their aid.
The association emphasised that if marine services are forced to shut down, it could signal a much larger economic crisis, particularly impacting sectors such as oil production.
MEOLAN also urged the youths within communities to reject the allure of criminality and instead embrace education and vocational training.
They also encouraged community leaders to take a stand against crime, assuring that a united front can foster secure environments that benefit legitimate businesses.
Meanwhile, the association has announced that inflation has forced their members to raise the prices for their services to sustain their businesses.
Consequently, the previous price for top goods and barges was N250,000, but due to increased costs, the new minimum prices will be N500,000 for double-screw top goods and N400,000 for barges.
Acknowledging potential customer concerns about frequent price hikes, Kuku reassured clients that the association is committed to transparency, assuring that prices would be adjusted downwards if costs decrease in the future.
He highlighted that the marine equipment leasing business is capital-intensive, adding that without adequate pricing, maintaining equipment and providing services becomes unfeasible.
He appealed to customers’ understanding, noting that everyone in Nigeria is facing similar economic challenges.
The new prices, Kuku said, would take effect on 1 March 2025.
(The Sun)
