NIWA Chairman advocates water transport expansion, safer boats

By Steve Agbota                                    

The newly-appointed Chairman of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Musa Sarkin-Adar, has called for the expansion of water transportation across more states and the phasing out of wooden boats to enhance passenger safety.

Speaking during a recent familiarisation visit to NIWA’s Abuja liaison office, he emphasised the need for increased private sector involvement, stating that the government alone cannot drive the sector’s development.

Sarkin-Adar urged NIWA to intensify efforts in expanding water transportation to more states, emphasizing that the private sector must play a greater role as the government alone cannot drive the sector’s development.

The Chairman also called for the phasing out of wooden boats to enhance passenger safety and reduce accidents on the waterways. He encouraged the NIWA leadership to work towards building a lasting legacy that would positively impact the future of inland water transportation in the country.

While receiving the Board Chairman, the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji commended his management team for their contributions to the growth of inland water transportation in Nigeria.

Oyebamiji credited the progress in the sector to the dedication and expertise of his team, stating, “I am blessed with an experienced and committed team, and I cannot take the glory alone.”

The visit, which was attended by NIWA’s management team, reinforced the Authority’s commitment to strengthening water transport infrastructure and improving safety measures nationwide.