NIWA Intensifies Safety Campaign in FCT Waterfront Communities

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has intensified its marine safety and environmental protection campaign across waterfront communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as rising water levels during the rainy season increase safety risks on inland waterways.

Speaking during a sensitisation exercise in the Abaji Area Council, the Area Manager of the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office, Aisha Eri, said the campaign is designed to promote safe navigation practices and environmental stewardship among residents living in riverine communities.

She explained that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reinforces existing regulations aimed at achieving zero tolerance for water transportation accidents and other safety violations.

Eri commended the host communities for their cooperation and reaffirmed NIWA’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s inland waterways while protecting the lives and livelihoods of people who depend on them.

The Emir of Kwali, Adamu Saba Aguma, praised NIWA for the initiative and pledged the support of traditional institutions in ensuring compliance with safety regulations across waterfront communities.

District heads from neighbouring communities also welcomed the campaign, promising to work with the authority to promote safety awareness and adherence to established guidelines.

The nationwide sensitisation exercise follows a directive by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, mandating sustained engagement with littoral communities to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Umar Yusuf Girei, has also directed all Area Offices to give the campaign top priority. The Abuja Area Office is expected to extend the sensitisation programme to other waterfront communities within and around the FCT in the coming week.