The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, is set to embark on a one-day working visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) headquarters in Lokoja on Tuesday, June 11. This visit, announced by the Minister’s spokesman, Ismail Omipidan, on Saturday, will see Oyetola inaugurating several key projects and programmes spearheaded by NIWA in recent months.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji, NIWA has completed numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency on Nigeria’s inland waterways. Notable among these projects are the commissioning of 12 fibre-reinforced plastic fast-moving boats and three water ambulances. These new boats are part of a pilot scheme intended to phase out wooden canoes and reduce the frequency of accidents on the waterways.
MD Oyebamiji expressed his excitement about the Minister’s visit, emphasizing that it provides an opportunity for his team to showcase their accomplishments since he took office seven months ago. Oyebamiji highlighted that the Minister had tasked him with addressing the persistent issue of accidents on the waterways upon his appointment. In response, his team has implemented significant measures, including the finalization and gazetting of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation (2023) for safety regulations.
“The process to have the code gazetted had been on for many years. However, within six months, we have been able to conclude the process. The code will be launched by the Honourable Minister on Tuesday. Once launched, it will guide the operations of boat operators on the inland waterways, regulate passenger conduct, and provide a framework for potential investors in water transportation. This will undoubtedly help to eliminate incessant accidents on our waterways,” Oyebamiji stated.
Additionally, the Minister will inaugurate three water ambulances designated for prompt search and rescue operations in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Niger. These ambulances are part of NIWA’s strategy to improve emergency response capabilities in water-heavy areas.
This visit marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance maritime safety and infrastructure, reflecting Oyetola’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s blue economy.