The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has launched a major cleanup operation in the Ikorodu axis of Lagos State to clear the growing menace of water hyacinth and ensure uninterrupted water transport and commercial activities along the busy corridor.
The Lagos Area Office of NIWA on Friday deployed a specialized task force supported by heavy-duty machinery including swamp devils, aquatic weed harvesters, and tugboats to tackle the widespread buildup of water hyacinth around Ebute Ikorodu and the Ikpakodo Ferry Terminal.
According to Engr. Sarat Braimah, NIWA Lagos Area Manager, the operation is part of a strategic nationwide initiative to maintain navigable waterways and protect the livelihoods of communities that depend on marine transportation and fishing.
“We have carefully studied the pattern and spread of the water hyacinth phenomenon and decided to act swiftly to mitigate its impact before it disrupts ferry and boat operations,” Engr. Braimah explained.
“Beyond transportation, we are also concerned about the effect on local fishing activities. The earlier we intervene, the better for the ecosystem and the people,” she added.
Engr. Braimah further noted that NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, has awarded contracts for the nationwide removal of water hyacinth to ensure smooth navigation and safer passage for goods and passengers across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
She affirmed that she would personally supervise the ongoing operation in Ikorodu throughout the week to monitor progress and ensure that the cleanup is thorough and sustainable.
Water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant, has long posed serious challenges to waterway navigation in Lagos and other coastal areas of Nigeria, clogging ferry routes, disrupting trade, and endangering aquatic life.
The latest intervention by NIWA underscores the Authority’s commitment to proactive waterway management, environmental sustainability, and the promotion of efficient inland transport as part of the Federal Government’s Blue Economy drive.