The Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Umar Yusuf Girei, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to staff safety as a key driver of improved productivity and organizational growth.
Girei made this known while delivering a paper titled “Good Psycho-Social Working Environment: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organization” to commemorate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, held on April 28, 2026, at the Authority’s conference hall in Lokoja.
He explained that NIWA’s management has consistently prioritized initiatives aimed at enhancing staff welfare and creating a conducive working environment. According to him, this includes the construction of new office spaces and the rehabilitation of existing structures at the headquarters and selected area offices.
“We have provided a well-equipped staff clinic and ensured access to potable water and proper sanitation at the headquarters in Lokoja and some selected area offices,” he stated.
The NIWA boss further disclosed that the Authority, in collaboration with relevant institutions such as the Federal Medical Centre Lokoja, has been organizing periodic mental health awareness sessions for staff. He added that flexible work arrangements have also been introduced for nursing mothers, in line with directives from the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation.
Girei noted that staff capacity development remains a priority, revealing that personnel across various cadres have benefited from training programmes in emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and workplace stress management conducted in countries such as Turkey and Rwanda.
He emphasized that fostering a positive psycho-social work environment is essential for building a resilient workforce and achieving institutional goals.
The event attracted key stakeholders, including representatives of the Nigerian Navy (NNS Lugard), Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC), the Kogi State Ministry of Transportation, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
