• Fri. Feb 14th, 2025


The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, embarked on a significant one-day working visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) on June 11, 2024. The visit was marked by the commissioning of several landmark projects aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities and safety standards of Nigeria’s inland waterways.

During his address, Oyetola emphasized the critical role of the maritime sector in improving Nigeria’s balance of trade, strengthening the naira, and creating employment opportunities. He reiterated the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s commitment to maximizing the comparative advantages presented by the country’s maritime resources, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the long-awaited Water Transportation Code, a regulatory framework designed to standardize water transportation, minimize accidents, and create a structured environment for potential investors. Oyetola commended NIWA’s management for their diligent efforts in bringing this vital code to fruition.

The newly inaugurated projects include a fleet of fifteen boats of varying capacities and purposes. These include three surveillance boats, five safety enforcement boats, a gun patrol boat, a 62-seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace traditional wooden canoes, three water ambulances, and two hydrographic survey boats equipped with multi-beam echo sounders. These initiatives are set to enhance surveillance, safety enforcement, and emergency response on Nigeria’s waterways.

“These initiatives fulfill our commitment to ensuring our inland waterways are well-utilized for both cargo shipment and passenger transportation,” remarked Oyetola. He also pledged to address both internal and external challenges impeding NIWA’s operations, aiming for continuous improvement and expansion of navigable waterways.

Looking ahead, the Minister unveiled plans to increase navigable waterways by at least 2,000 kilometers through comprehensive dredging. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to finalize the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), which is intended to support the development of the maritime sector. Oyetola called upon the private sector to invest in and partner with the government to leverage the numerous opportunities within the maritime industry for sustainable development.

Kogi Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, represented by his deputy, Comrade Salifu Joel, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a capable leader as NIWA’s Managing Director. “We know NIWA now because the President has appointed the right person that is making an impact,” Joel stated.

In his welcome address, NIWA Managing Director/CEO Mr. Bola Oyebamiji expressed gratitude for the Honourable Minister’s support and guidance in driving organizational reforms and enhancing operational efficiency. He outlined proactive measures taken by NIWA, including the implementation of education grants, promotion letters, and medical packages for staff, aimed at boosting morale and productivity. Oyebamiji also highlighted NIWA’s public engagement, emergency response, and enforcement initiatives, culminating in the launch of the first phase of water marshal initiatives, underscoring the agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of inland water transportation.

Permanent Secretary Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi commended the NIWA management for their achievements thus far and encouraged them to continue their efforts. He assured NIWA of the ministry’s ongoing support in actualizing its mandate.

The event concluded with Minister Oyetola officially inaugurating the newly completed projects, marking a significant advancement in the development of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor is a seasoned journalist and the CEO/Founder Belch Digital Communications, publishers of Hybrid News Nigeria.

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