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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) will work with State Governments, industry stakeholders, host communities and development partners to improve navigation, strengthen safety standards, modernise facilities and protect the waterways on which many livelihoods depend.
Acting Managing Director, NIWA, Alhaji Yusuf Girei, made the commitment in a goodwill message at the 2026 World Maritime Day celebration on Friday, themed “From policy to practice: Powering excellence.”
“This year’s theme reminds us that strong policies create value only when they are translated into meaningful action,” he said. “In the maritime sector, that means safer waterways, reliable infrastructure, environmental stewardship and services that support trade and economic growth.”
Girei said excellence in the sector is a shared responsibility. It requires skilled professionals, effective regulation, investment in innovation and a culture that puts safety and sustainability at the heart of operations.
“By working together, we can build a maritime sector that is competitive, inclusive and prepared for the future,” he added.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, the Permanent Secretary and all stakeholders whose commitment keeps the industry moving, urging participants to turn shared ambition into practical results.
The event drew Oyetola; the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood; Chairperson and Keynote Speaker, Mrs. Mfon Usoro; Directors and Heads of departments; Chief Executives of the Ministry’s parastatals; members of the diplomatic corps; industry stakeholders; and the media.
Girei also joined in presenting awards in the Primary School Children’s Essay Competition, a category sponsored by NIWA as the first place – Idris Jibril Oladimeji of Holy Cross Primary School, Lagos, won N200,000 and a laptop.
In second place, Suleiman Aisha of St. Paul’s Anglican School, Lagos Island, received N150,000 and a laptop; while the third place – Yahaya Aliyah of St. Mathias Girls Primary School, Lagos, got N100,000 and a laptop.
On behalf of NIWA’s Board, Management and Staff, Girei wished all stakeholders a successful celebration.
