NIWA MD Advocates for State Collaboration to Bolster Inland Waterways Safety and Security
The Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB, has called for increased collaboration between NIWA and state governments to enhance the safety and security of inland water transportation across Nigeria.
Speaking through representatives Dr. Wale Tijani, Technical Adviser to the MD, and Engr. Mohammed Dangana, General Manager of Special Duties, Oyebamiji delivered his remarks at a one-day consultative forum organized by the Nigeria Transportation Commissioners’ Forum. The event, held in Ilorin, Kwara State, focused on addressing safety and security challenges in inland waterways transportation under the theme: “Prevalent Safety, Security Hazards and Practices in Inland Waterways: Passenger Transport Safety.”
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Oyebamiji pointed to NIWA’s recent advancements, including the introduction of a transportation code for public use and the deployment of critical operational assets. These assets include survey boats, gunboats, water ambulances, and passenger ferries aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of inland waterways.
Additionally, NIWA has launched community-focused safety campaigns across its operational bases, tailoring messages in native languages to ensure widespread understanding.
The MD also praised the support of the National Assembly, particularly ongoing discussions around the establishment of coastal guards and the House Committee on Inland Waterways’ proactive measures to address safety and security concerns.
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Oyebamiji called on state transportation commissioners to strengthen collaboration with NIWA, particularly in areas such as training, safety campaigns, infrastructure development, and financial support, to build a safer and more reliable water transportation system.
“Yes, the task is huge and challenging, but it is surmountable,” he remarked, urging all stakeholders to commit to actionable outcomes from the forum.
The consultative forum underscored the shared responsibility of NIWA and state governments in addressing inland waterway challenges and fostering a secure and thriving transportation sector.
