The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has sought stronger collaboration with the Kogi Government to develop the state’s inland waterways and harness their economic potential.
Barr. Mukhtari Shagari, Chairman of NIWA Board of Directors, made the call when he led the management team of the authority on a courtesy visit to Gov. Ahmed Ododo at his official residence in Lokoja on Sunday.
Shagari described Kogi as a state strategically endowed with inland waterways capable of contributing significantly to economic growth if properly harnessed.
He said NIWA remained committed to supporting the development of the state’s waterways in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Blue Economy Agenda.
“Kogi is uniquely blessed with strategic waterways that, if properly developed, can contribute significantly to the prosperity of the state and the nation at large.
“In line with the Blue Economy Agenda of President Tinubu, NIWA remains committed to working closely with your administration to unlock the full potential of these waterways,” he said.
Shagari said the authority was seeking the collaboration of the state government in the development and rehabilitation of jetties and landing sites, dredging and maintenance of navigable channels, and promotion of safe water transportation.
He also sought the state government’s support in enhancing waterways security and safety.
The NIWA chairman reaffirmed the authority’s readiness to partner with the Kogi Government to transform inland waterways into a major driver of sustainable development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Government’s Blue Economy Vision.
Responding, Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with NIWA to enhance water transportation, safety and sustainable development of inland waterways in the state.
The governor said his administration would immediately constitute a joint committee with NIWA to develop a roadmap for the sustainable development of inland waterways in Kogi.
According to him, the roadmap will prioritise the development of jetties in rural communities, improve water transportation and create employment opportunities for youths across the state.
Ododo commended the NIWA management for the visit and expressed optimism that the collaboration would accelerate the development of the state’s vast inland waterways for the benefit of residents and the national economy.
The NIWA delegation included Mr Yusuf Girei, Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Abdullahi Dabai, General Manager, Human Resources and Administration, Ibrahim Sade, General Manager, Procurement, and Mr Japhet Maisaje, General Manager, Audit.
Others were Muazu Dan’Azumi, General Manager, Planning, Research and Statistics, Engr. Fidelis Ejike, General Manager, Engineering, Engr. Titus Adoga, General Manager, Ports and Environment, and Suleiman Mama, Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs.
