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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining clean, safe and sustainable inland waterways as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day.
Speaking at the NIWA headquarters in Lokoja, the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Umar Yusuf Girei, said the Authority remains focused on protecting Nigeria’s waterways while supporting climate resilience and sustainable urban development.
The 2026 World Environment Day celebration is themed “Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future,” highlighting the growing environmental pressures associated with rapid urban expansion and climate change.
Girei noted that many Nigerian cities are developing around rivers and waterways that serve as critical hubs for commerce, transportation and economic activities. However, he warned that increasing urbanisation is placing immense pressure on the environment, resulting in challenges such as flooding, erosion and rising temperatures.
According to him, inland waterways constitute vital natural infrastructure for building resilient cities, stressing that well-managed rivers and channels help reduce flood risks by serving as natural drainage systems while providing a cleaner and lower-carbon transport alternative for moving passengers and cargo.
He said NIWA remains committed to responsible dredging operations, riverbank protection and sustained efforts to combat pollution and indiscriminate waste disposal across the nation’s waterways.
“Clean waterways are essential to sustainable development, environmental protection and economic growth. We will continue to implement measures that preserve the integrity of our inland waterways for present and future generations,” he stated.
The NIWA boss also called for greater public participation in environmental conservation, noting that government efforts alone would not be sufficient to address the growing environmental challenges.
He urged Nigerians to dispose of waste responsibly, plant trees along riverbanks, report illegal dredging and encroachment activities, and actively support initiatives aimed at protecting the environment.
Girei further encouraged increased use of water transportation, describing it as a safer, more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to road transport.
He emphasized that collective action by government, communities and stakeholders remains crucial to building resilient cities and safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways against the adverse effects of climate change.
