NIWA to phase out unsafe boats, deepen private sector collaboration

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has unveiled plans to phase out unsafe boats, upgrade dilapidated infrastructure, and deepen collaboration with the private sector to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Shehu Shagari, chairman of the governing board of NIWA, made this known during a facility tour of NIWA projects and facilities in Lagos, alongside members of the Board, and Yusuf Gerie, managing director of NIWA, at the NIWA Lagos Area Office, Marina, recently.

Speaking during a media briefing at the event, Shagari stated that the visit was part of efforts to assess operations at the Lagos Area Office and identify areas requiring intervention to improve inland water transportation nationwide, noting that the board had directed that all deteriorating NIWA facilities across the country be identified for rehabilitation, and that new jetties would also be constructed to expand access to water transport.

“We have made provisions in our budget to address infrastructure challenges across our offices and jetties nationwide. We want all NIWA facilities to be functional, presentable, and capable of supporting efficient service delivery,” he said.

Read also: NIWA raises concern over overloaded container barges on Lagos waterways

Shagari added that NIWA is also committed to increasing the number of jetties nationwide, particularly in Lagos, to meet the growing demand for water transportation.

Addressing concerns over unregulated jetties and safety compliance, he disclosed that NIWA was working closely with security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to strengthen enforcement and ensure adherence to water transport regulations.

Shargari further expressed concern over the continued use of old and unsafe boats by operators, describing many of the vessels currently in use as outdated and unsuitable for modern water transportation.

“We are committed to phasing out unsafe vessels and replacing them with safer and more modern alternatives. The safety of Nigerians on our waterways remains a top priority,” he stated, revealing that NIWA is exploring avenues to procure modern vessels and would collaborate with indigenous boat builders and other stakeholders to improve the quality of water transport services in the country.

Highlighting the economic benefits of inland waterways transportation, Shagari emphasised that safer and more navigable waterways would reduce transportation costs, lower pressure on road infrastructure, facilitate the movement of goods, and contribute to economic growth.

He called for greater private sector participation in dredging, infrastructure development, and water transportation services, noting that sustainable development of the waterways sector requires collective effort.