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By Steve Agbota
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving navigational safety, developing reliable waterways infrastructure and promoting sustainable economic growth as Nigeria marked the 2026 World Maritime Day.
The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Yusuf Girei, gave the assurance in his goodwill message at the celebration, which was held under the theme, “From Policy to Practice: Powering Excellence.”
Girei said the theme underscored the need for stakeholders in the maritime sector to translate policies into practical actions capable of improving safety, strengthening infrastructure and supporting trade and economic development.
“Strong policies create value only when they are translated into meaningful action. In the maritime sector, that means safer waterways, reliable infrastructure, environmental stewardship and services that support trade and economic growth,” he said.
He stated that NIWA would continue to collaborate with state governments, industry stakeholders, host communities and development partners to improve navigation, strengthen safety standards, modernise facilities and protect inland waterways that support the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
According to him, achieving excellence in the maritime industry requires collective responsibility, skilled professionals, effective regulation, investment in innovation and a firm commitment to safety and environmental sustainability.
“By working together, we can build a maritime sector that is competitive, inclusive and prepared for the future,” Girei added.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Fatima Sugra Mahmood, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
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The NIWA boss also urged industry players to move beyond shared aspirations and ensure that policies and commitments produced measurable results across the sector.
The 2026 World Maritime Day celebration was attended by Oyetola, Mahmood, the chairperson and keynote speaker, Mrs Mfon Usoro, directors and heads of departments, chief executives of agencies under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, members of the diplomatic corps, industry stakeholders and media representatives.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to winners of the primary school pupils’ essay competition sponsored by NIWA.
Idris Jibril Oladimeji of Holy Cross Primary School, Lagos, emerged first and received N200,000 and a laptop computer.
Suleiman Aisha of St. Paul’s Anglican School, Lagos Island, came second, winning N150,000 and a laptop, while Yahaya Aliyah of St. Mathias Girls Primary School, Lagos, placed third and received N100,000 and a laptop computer.
The cash prizes amounted to N450,000, while the three winners also received laptop computers in recognition of their performance in the competition.
The initiative formed part of activities marking the celebration, which highlighted the importance of translating maritime policies into practical outcomes and promoting excellence among stakeholders, including young Nigerians.
Girei, on behalf of NIWA’s Board, Management and staff, wished stakeholders a successful celebration and reiterated the Authority’s commitment to safer waterways, improved infrastructure and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s inland water transport system.
