In a bold step to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the General Managers and Area Managers of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have entered into a performance bond agreement with the Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB. The signing of the bond underscores NIWA’s commitment to enforcing safety regulations and achieving its goal of eradicating boat mishaps across the country.

The agreement, signed during the NIWA Retreat 2025, is a strategic initiative aimed at holding senior officials accountable for the safety and operational efficiency of their respective jurisdictions. It also aligns with the agency’s broader mandate to ensure the safety of lives and property on Nigeria’s waterways.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Oyebamiji emphasized that the performance bond reflects the agency’s zero-tolerance policy for accidents and underscores the critical role of leadership in achieving safer waterways. “This is a decisive step towards achieving our vision of safe, efficient, and sustainable waterways. Every manager must ensure compliance with safety protocols in their areas,” he said.

In a related development, the NIWA Managing Director also inaugurated an Emergency Response Committee. The committee’s primary responsibility is to coordinate swift interventions during maritime emergencies, working closely with stakeholders to mitigate risks and respond promptly to incidents.

The formation of the committee is expected to bolster NIWA’s readiness to address emergencies, enhance collaboration with boat operators, and increase public awareness of safety protocols.

As Nigeria’s inland waterways continue to serve as a vital transportation corridor, NIWA’s renewed focus on safety and operational excellence aims to ensure that citizens can travel with greater confidence and security.

With these initiatives, NIWA reiterates its commitment to fostering a culture of safety and accountability in the nation’s maritime sector.