Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has reaffirmed that safety on Nigeria’s waterways is paramount. In response to recurring boat accidents, NIWA has implemented enhanced safety protocols to improve the security of Nigeria’s inland waterways and protect lives and property.
Oyebamiji assured the public that NIWA will continue to fulfill its constitutional obligations under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, focusing on preventing boat mishaps caused by reckless operators and safety violations.
Attending the 46th International Maritime Organization (IMO) Consultative Conference in London, Oyebamiji is engaging with global experts on issues such as marine geo-engineering, marine litter, and CO2 sequestration. Insights from the conference are expected to aid NIWA in adopting sustainable practices for Nigeria’s waterways, aligning the country’s maritime sector with international environmental standards.
Discussions at the conference have highlighted key areas for improvement, including waste management, international compliance, capacity building, monitoring, and contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Implementing the IMO’s London Protocol will support Nigeria in fostering safer, more sustainable inland waterways while advancing marine protection and socio-economic growth.
