Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari has signed into law a new bill to combat piracy in its waters and beyond.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) said the Suppression of Piracy and other Maritime Offences Bill will "ensure safe and secure shipping on Nigerian waters, prosecute infractions, and criminalise piracy."

The new law outlines penalties for maritime crimes, as well as compensation for shipowners and forfeiture of proceeds of piracy to the government.