The House of Representatives Committee on Navy is currently investigating the legality of the federal government’s $195,300,000 Deep Blue contract with a foreign private company.
HLS International Limited, for the supply of certain security and surveillance equipment and systems, yesterday queried the Nigerian Maritime Administration Agency (NIMASA) over the purchase of arms for a security outfit, yet to be established in Nigeria.
In response to the submission made by the Director-General of NIMASA, Bashir Jamoh, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, questioned the agency’s procurement of military equipment and custodial powers.
“We don’t have coast guard, why are you procuring military equipment and keeping them in your custody preempting that you would have coast guard to hand over to them? Do you think it is safe for this country to keep military equipment in your custody with the sole aim of establishing an agency, predetermining that Mr President would approve the establishment of the coast guard?