The effect of maritime security on national development in Nigeria

The study examined the contribution and the relationship between maritime security and Nigeria’s development as well as the prospects and challenges of maritime security in Nigeria. The study utilized questionnaire and focus group discussion/interview as instruments for data collection. The method of analysis employed in the study is descriptive. A total of Three Hundred and Ninety (390) respondents were randomly selected. The result of the study showed that maritime security contributes to national development in Nigeria through guaranteeing food security in Nigeria, creating employment opportunities as well as increasing the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) of the economy. It was also found that maritime security is yet to provide sufficient support for national development in Nigeria. It is further established that it has prospects for development through the creation of employment opportunities, increase in foreign earnings, and fostering improved living standard for citizens. The study concluded that the high level of corruption, piracy and kidnapping, and the porosity of the Nigerian borders are serious obstacles, among others. To ensure national development and maritime safety in Nigeria, the study recommended that the government should address the high level of poverty, corruption and youth unemployment.