Joseph Chibu
The Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Barrister Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to upgrading waterways infrastructure, improving safety and expanding inland water transportation.
Shagari disclosed this during a facility tour of NIWA projects and facilities in Lagos, alongside Board members and the Managing Director, Engr. Yusuf Gerie.
He said the Board was conducting a nationwide assessment of NIWA facilities to identify areas requiring rehabilitation, including dilapidated offices, jetties and other critical infrastructure.
The NIWA Chairman stated that efforts were underway to increase the number of jetties, strengthen waterway safety enforcement and phase out old and unsafe boats.
He added that the Authority would collaborate with indigenous boat builders, security agencies and private sector stakeholders to improve vessel standards and enhance regulatory compliance.
Shagari noted that safer and more efficient waterways would reduce transportation costs, ease pressure on roads and contribute to economic growth.
The NIWA Board also highlighted the importance of improving internally generated revenue and encouraging private sector participation in infrastructure development and water transport services.
The Managing Director of NIWA, Engr. Yusuf Gerie, said the visit provided an opportunity to assess operations at the Lagos Area Office and develop measures to improve service delivery.
The Lagos Area Manager, Engr. Sarat Braimah, described Lagos as a key hub for inland water transport and assured of continued efforts towards safety and operational efficiency.
NIWA reiterated its commitment to building a safer, modern and sustainable inland waterways system through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.