NIWA Intensifies FCT Waterways Safety Campaign As Flood Risks Rise

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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has stepped up its campaign for safer inland waterways operations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), launching an intensive marine safety and environmental protection sensitisation programme in Abaji as rising water levels during the peak of the rainy season heighten the risk of boat accidents.

The initiative, held on Wednesday by the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office, forms part of the Federal Government’s zero-tolerance policy on waterways accidents and environmental infractions. The campaign focused on promoting safe navigation practices, environmental stewardship, and compliance with safety regulations among residents of waterfront communities.

Speaking during the sensitisation exercise, the Area Manager of the Abuja Area/Liaison Office, Hajia Aisha Eri, commended the host communities for their cooperation and reaffirmed NIWA’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and the nation’s inland waterways.

She stressed that continuous public enlightenment remains critical to reducing avoidable accidents, particularly during the rainy season when water levels rise and navigation becomes more hazardous.

The Emir of Kwali, HRH Alhaji Adamu Saba Aguma, praised NIWA for bringing the campaign closer to the people, describing the initiative as timely and necessary. He pledged the full support of traditional institutions in ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations and safeguarding the waterways.

Other traditional rulers, including the District Head of Kundu, John Dogole; Sarkin Tungbufu, Mohammed Yusuf; Sarkin Nassarawa, Ayahaya Nassarawa; Sarkin Kutara, Musa Wabai; Sarkin Kwago and Padama, Musa Alanana; and Sarkin Kwakwa, Abdullahi Kwakwa, also expressed appreciation for the awareness campaign and assured NIWA of their communities’ commitment to implementing the safety measures highlighted during the exercise.

The sensitisation programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and follows the directive of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for sustained engagement with littoral communities across the country to curb waterways accidents.

Similarly, the Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, has directed all Area Offices nationwide to accord the campaign top priority as part of efforts to strengthen safety compliance and environmental protection on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

NIWA disclosed that the Abuja Area Office will continue the sensitisation campaign in other waterfront communities across the FCT and its environs next week as part of its broader strategy to promote a safety-first culture on the nation’s inland waterways.