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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has unveiled plans to rehabilitate dilapidated jetties, phase out unsafe boats, strengthen safety enforcement and deepen private sector participation as part of a renewed strategy to modernise Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Shagari said the newly inaugurated board had prioritised a nationwide assessment of NIWA’s infrastructure, with budgetary provisions already made to rehabilitate offices and jetties while expanding critical water transport facilities.
“We want all NIWA facilities to be functional, presentable and capable of supporting efficient service delivery,” he said.
He revealed that the Authority also plans to increase the number of jetties, particularly in Lagos, to meet the growing demand for water transportation.
Shagari also vowed that NIWA would intensify enforcement against unregulated jetties in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies while phasing out ageing and unsafe boats.
“The safety of Nigerians on our waterways remains a top priority. We are committed to replacing obsolete vessels with safer and more modern alternatives,” he stated.
The Board Chairman added that NIWA would work with indigenous boat builders and private investors to procure modern vessels, improve service delivery and enhance water transport efficiency nationwide.
He opined that developing safer and more navigable inland waterways would reduce transportation costs, ease pressure on road infrastructure, facilitate cargo movement and stimulate economic growth.
Shagari also urged greater private sector investment in dredging, jetty construction and other water transport infrastructure, noting that sustainable development of the sector requires strong public-private collaboration.
Earlier, NIWA Acting Managing Director, Mr. Yusuf Girei, said the Board’s visit was designed to assess operations firsthand and identify practical measures to improve the Authority’s performance nationwide.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for assembling a team of professionals to reposition NIWA and drive the Renewed Hope Agenda in the marine and blue economy sector.
Welcoming the delegation, Lagos Area Manager, Engr. Sarat Braimah, reaffirmed the office’s commitment to improving safety, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency and infrastructure development on Nigeria’s busiest inland waterways.
