China Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Inland Waterways Transport

The People’s Republic of China has pledged to support the Federal Government of Nigeria in enhancing inland waterways transport to alleviate port congestion across the country.

During the Breakfast Meeting on Security and New Technologies for Inland Waterways Transportation organized by Zoe Maritime Resources Ltd. in Lagos, the Consul General of China, Ms. Yan Yuqing, affirmed China’s commitment to partnering with Nigeria in developing its inland waterways transport sector.

Highlighting Nigeria’s significant rivers such as the Niger River, the Osun River, and the Cross River, Yuqing emphasized the immense potential these waterways hold for the country’s transportation development.

She pointed out that China’s productive sectors currently drive inland waterways transportation, advocating for collaboration with Nigeria to decongest ports and enhance trade efficiency.

Yuqing noted the environmental benefits of China’s waterways transportation system, highlighting its contribution to reducing carbon emissions and promoting interplay between manufacturing and waterways transport.

She highlighted China’s extensive investments in maritime infrastructure, including the construction of automated container terminals and the establishment of transportation links with over 100 countries and regions worldwide.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, commended the organizers for addressing the intersection of security and new technologies in inland waterways transportation.

Oyetola acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria’s National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), including non-channelization and dredging of navigable rivers, inadequate port construction and rehabilitation, and limited water transport infrastructure.

He stressed the importance of developing the inland waterways transportation system, highlighting its potential for high transport volume, low energy consumption, and minimal environmental impact.

Assuring Nigerians of the government’s commitment to enhancing inland waterways transport, Oyetola emphasized the need for sustainable growth and development in the sector.

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Malam Muhammed Bello-Koko, outlined efforts to improve port security and efficiency, including collaboration with marine police officers and the construction of electronic gates at ports.

He also highlighted the NPA’s initiatives to encourage cargo haulage through rail and barges, which have helped decongest ports and reduce business operation time.

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The Managing Director of the Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Alhaji Munirudeen Oyebanji, emphasized the authority’s focus on safety and stakeholder engagement, including constant enlightenment of boat users and collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to ensure nighttime safety.

The event’s convener, Mrs. Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, stressed the importance of stimulating investment in inland waterways transportation through security measures and new technologies. She underscored the need for efficient ports to fulfill their mandates and drive economic growth.