NIWA, Kogi Government Strengthen Partnership On Inland Waterways Development
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has sought closer collaboration with the Kogi State Government to unlock the economic potential of the state’s inland waterways through improved infrastructure, safer navigation and sustainable water transportation.
The call was made by the Chairman of the NIWA Board of Directors, Barrister Mukhtari Shagari, during a courtesy visit by the authority’s management team to Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, at his official residence in Lokoja on Sunday.
Shagari described Kogi as strategically positioned with extensive inland waterways that could significantly boost the state’s economy if properly developed. He noted that NIWA’s commitment aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Blue Economy Agenda, aimed at maximizing Nigeria’s aquatic resources for national development.
He said the authority was seeking the state’s partnership in rehabilitating and developing jetties and landing sites, dredging and maintaining navigable channels, promoting safe water transportation, and improving security along inland waterways.
According to him, strengthening collaboration with the state government would help transform Kogi’s waterways into a major driver of sustainable economic growth in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Blue Economy Vision.
Responding, Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with NIWA to enhance water transportation, improve safety standards and promote sustainable development across the state’s waterways.
The governor announced plans to immediately establish a joint committee with NIWA to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of inland waterways in Kogi State.
He explained that the roadmap would prioritize the construction and rehabilitation of jetties in rural communities, improve access to water transportation and create employment opportunities for young people.
Ododo commended the NIWA leadership for the visit, expressing confidence that the partnership would accelerate the development of the state’s vast inland water resources for the benefit of residents and the nation’s economy.
The NIWA delegation included the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Yusuf Girei, alongside other top management officials responsible for human resources, procurement, engineering, planning, ports and environmental management, audit, and corporate affairs.
