In a dedicated effort to enhance security, safety, and uphold the welfare of citizens using Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji,
has reiterated the Authority’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property on the waterways.
Speaking from the ongoing 46th Consultative Conference of Contracting Parties at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London, Oyebamiji reinforced that safety on Nigerian waterways remains “non-negotiable” and that NIWA will continue implementing rigorous measures to combat risks associated with boat mishaps caused by noncompliance with safety standards.
Representing NIWA under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyebamiji emphasized that the Authority is fully aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aiming to advance inland waterway operations and champion its mandate to protect citizens. He stated that insights gained from the IMO conference will be pivotal for developing safer, more efficient navigation systems across Nigeria’s waterways.
At the conference, Oyebamiji joined global maritime experts and stakeholders to address critical issues affecting marine environments, including marine geoengineering, marine litter, microplastics, and CO2 sequestration. These discussions are anticipated to enhance Nigeria’s inland waterway management by integrating sustainable international practices that protect marine ecosystems and foster socio-economic growth.
The conference, centered on the London Protocol, provided a forum for Oyebamiji and international counterparts to deliberate on environmental protection strategies, robust waste management practices, adherence to global standards, capacity building, and enhanced monitoring. Topics on capacity-building initiatives and support for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been particularly relevant for Nigeria, as NIWA seeks to bolster environmental compliance, improve safety, and contribute to improved health and livelihoods along its waterways.
The NIWA boss affirmed that the takeaways from the London Protocol discussions will strengthen Nigeria’s inland waterway sector, aligning it with international best practices and furthering the Authority’s commitment to a sustainable, secure, and environmentally friendly maritime ecosystem.
