The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safety on its inland waterways, emphasizing that the protection of lives and property is paramount. Speaking from the 46th Consultative Conference of Contracting Parties at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London, Oyebamiji stressed that the Authority would ensure full compliance with safety standards, aiming to eliminate boat mishaps and uphold the constitutional responsibilities of NIWA under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This is part of the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“Oyebamiji stated that safety on Nigeria’s waterways is nonnegotiable,” reaffirming NIWA’s dedication to tackling the risks posed by noncompliance among boat operators. He highlighted that NIWA would enforce stringent measures to curb reckless behavior and prevent tragic accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
In London, Oyebamiji has joined global maritime stakeholders to discuss pressing environmental and navigational issues, including Marine Geoengineering, Marine Litter and Microplastics, and CO2 Sequestration, topics critical to preserving ocean health and ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems. The conference is providing insights that Oyebamiji believes will help advance Nigeria’s inland waterway infrastructure, aligning it with sustainable practices to bolster socio-economic benefits.
A key focus of the discussions is the implementation of the London Protocol, which addresses environmental protection, international compliance, and waste management practices that have significant implications for Nigeria’s maritime sector. Oyebamiji noted that adopting the Protocol would not only support environmental sustainability but also strengthen Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enhancing livelihoods and promoting safety.
The conference topics, including capacity building, enhanced monitoring and enforcement, and support for health and sustainable practices, are intended to equip NIWA with the resources to improve navigation safety on Nigerian waterways and support global efforts toward environmental preservation.