Former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, has revealed that the Federal Government approved about ₦14.6 billion for the procurement of modern boats and ferries to improve safety, trade and passenger movement across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Oyebamiji made this disclosure in Osun State on Thursday while receiving a group of maritime journalists on a courtesy visit, during which he was formally presented with a letter of nomination as the “Most Friendly Maritime CEO.”
Speaking on the intervention, Oyebamiji said inland water transport in many hinterland states had long been hampered by obsolete wooden boats and unsafe human practices, leading to frequent mishaps.
“I presented a paper to the Federal Government and the Honourable Minister, and about ₦14.6 billion was approved to procure standard boats and ferries that can safely carry agricultural products and passengers on our inland waters,” he said.
According to him, the vessels are targeted at riverine states such as Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Kebbi, where water transport remains a major lifeline for communities and markets.
He explained that the programme would reduce dependence on unsafe craft and strengthen food supply chains by moving farm produce faster from rural areas to urban centres.
Oyebamiji added that wooden boats account for about 20 to 25 per cent of challenges on inland waters, while human factors contribute close to 70 per cent of accidents, stressing that safety reforms must combine infrastructure, training and discipline.
“There was a time I organised training and discovered some operators came under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Safety is not just about vessels; it is also about behaviour. With better boats and sensitisation, we can change that culture,” he said.
Oyebamiji also reflected on NIWA’s transformation, noting that the agency was once largely known for boat mishaps before his administration prioritised staff welfare, motivation and stakeholder engagement.
“When I came into NIWA, we listened to the workers and engaged journalists as part of management by objective. Without employing new staff, the same people delivered about 75 to 80 per cent improvement,” he stated.
Beyond maritime issues, Oyebamiji, who is now the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, used the forum to seek the continued support of the maritime media as he transits into politics.
He told the journalists that transparency, accountability and people-focused leadership, which defined his tenure at NIWA, would also shape his political ambition, adding that the media remains critical in guiding public opinion and governance.
“I have always believed in engaging the media, listening to criticism and improving. As I move forward, I still count on your professionalism and partnership,” Oyebamiji said.
Earlier, leader of the group, Mr. Frank Meke thanked Oyebamiji for his accessibility, encouragement and welfare support to maritime journalists during his time at NIWA.
Meke said Oyebamiji’s openness helped reporters perform their duties effectively while projecting reforms in the inland waterways sector.
“Your support and concern for the welfare of maritime journalists strengthened our work and the industry. This nomination is our way of appreciating your people-centred leadership,” Meke said, as he officially presented the letter of nomination as “Most Friendly Maritime CEO.”
Receiving the honour, Oyebamiji described the recognition as symbolic of accountability and cooperation between regulators and the press.
He pledged to continue supporting maritime journalism and the development of inland waterways, stressing that the ₦14.6bn boat procurement programme remains one of the most strategic interventions aimed at improving safety, productivity and confidence on Nigeria’s inland waters.
