Nigeria’s recent approval from the United Nations to extend its continental shelf by 16,300 square kilometers marks a significant achievement for the nation’s maritime boundaries and economic potential.
This territory, five times the size of Lagos State, grants Nigeria sovereignty over additional maritime territory, expanding its jurisdiction beyond the existing 200 nautical miles.
Initiated in 2009, the Extended Continental Shelf Project has culminated in this milestone after years of dedicated scientific and diplomatic efforts.
Professor Larry Awosika, a marine scientist, and Surveyor Aliyu Omar, Secretary of the High Powered Presidential Committee (HPPC), presented the details of the extensive research and negotiations that led to the UN’s decision to President Bola Tinubu.
Surveyor Omar emphasized the strategic importance of this development for Nigeria, highlighting its significant economic potential in hydrocarbons, gas, solid minerals, and marine species. He outlined two options available to Nigeria following the approval: finalizing the registration with the UN Secretary-General within a year or acquiring additional data for a revised submission, potentially extending the process to four years. Regardless of the chosen path, Nigeria will maintain the newly approved area.
Professor Awosika underscored the meticulous scientific research that supported Nigeria’s successful submission, emphasizing the importance of maintaining confidentiality regarding sensitive data acquired during the surveys to protect Nigeria’s economic interests.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the committee for their hard work and dedication, acknowledging the importance of this achievement for Nigeria’s maritime boundaries and economic future.
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