HB.2466-Exclusive Economic Zone Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Bill Progress: First Reading.
The Exclusive Economic Zone Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2466) has recently made its debut in the Nigerian legislative landscape with its “First Reading” occurring in the House of Representatives. This initial stage marks the beginning of a crucial process that could reshape the management of Nigeria’s marine resources and significantly impact the country’s economic and environmental landscape.
The original Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Act, designed to establish Nigeria’s maritime boundaries, grants the country rights to a zone extending up to 200 nautical miles from its coastline. Within this zone, Nigeria has the sovereign authority necessary for exploring, exploiting, conserving, and managing various natural resources found both on the seabed and in its surrounding waters. These resources range from precious minerals to diverse marine species, which are vital for the country’s economy, biodiversity, and food security.
The amendment bill, sponsored by Hon. Sani Bala along with a group of thirteen co-sponsors, seeks to refine and modernize the existing EEZ law. As the details of these proposed amendments are still under wraps, it is anticipated that the bill will focus on three main objectives: aligning Nigeria’s domestic laws with international guidelines, enhancing national control over marine resources, and improving security and jurisdiction within the EEZ.
One of the essential goals of the amendment is to ensure that Nigeria’s maritime laws are in sync with international conventions, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This alignment is crucial not only for legal consistency but also for fostering international cooperation and understanding regarding the governance of marine areas. As maritime issues often transcend national boundaries, such alignment can help Nigeria position itself more favorably in negotiations and collaborations with other nations.
Furthermore, the amendment bill aims to strengthen Nigeria’s control over its valuable marine resources. By introducing new regulations and frameworks, it is expected to bolster efforts to manage and protect these resources from unauthorized exploitation. This is particularly important in light of the increasing threats posed by illegal fishing and environmental degradation, which have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s marine ecosystem and economic prosperity.
Incorporating enhanced security measures within the EEZ is another critical aspect of the proposed amendments. The bill has the potential to expand the scope of Nigeria’s criminal and civil laws, providing greater jurisdiction over activities within the zone. This is especially significant concerning the regulation of artificial islands and other installations that may impact the marine environment. By improving legal frameworks, the amendment may better equip Nigerian authorities to address violations, ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources for generations to come.
The legislative process for the bill will entail several stages before it can become law. Following the “First Reading,” where the bill is formally introduced and printed for distribution, the next step will be the “Second Reading.” During this phase, the bill will undergo a debate focused on its general principles, merits, and potential objectives. This is a critical opportunity for lawmakers to express their views and discuss the implications of the proposed amendments.
If the bill successfully passes the Second Reading, it will advance to the Committee Stage. At this juncture, a relevant committee will conduct a comprehensive review of the bill, examining it clause by clause. This stage often includes soliciting public input, allowing various stakeholders—such as environmental groups, industry representatives, and local communities—to provide feedback and suggestions. The committee may propose amendments based on this input, enhancing the bill’s effectiveness and scope.
Following the Committee Stage, the bill will enter the Committee of the Whole House or proceed to the Third Reading. Here, the complete legislative body will consider the committee’s report and any suggested amendments. A final vote will be cast on the bill as a whole, determining whether it will progress further in the legislative process.
Upon passing both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the bill will be submitted to the President for assent. This final step is crucial; once the President signs the bill into law, it will transform from a proposal into an official Act of the National Assembly, thereby enforcing the new regulations and provisions aimed at managing Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
The passage of the Exclusive Economic Zone Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, could have lasting implications for Nigeria’s governance of its maritime resources. The focus on aligning with international standards, enhancing national control, and bolstering security will likely prove beneficial not only for economic development but also for environmental sustainability. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders from various sectors will be watching closely, hoping that the final outcome prioritizes the effective stewardship of Nigeria’s rich marine heritage for future prosperity.
