₦14.6bn Lifeline for Inland Waterways: Oyebamiji says modern boats will cut accidents, drive trade

 

 

Maureen Aguta

Former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, has revealed that the Federal Government approved about ₦14.6 billion for the procurement of modern boats and ferries to significantly improve safety, boost trade and enhance passenger transportation on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Oyebamiji disclosed this on Thursday in Osun State while receiving a delegation of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists during a courtesy visit, at which he was formally presented with a letter nominating him as “Most Friendly Maritime CEO.”

He said the intervention was designed to address long-standing safety concerns arising from the widespread use of obsolete wooden boats and poor operational standards, particularly in hinterland and riverine communities.

“I presented a detailed paper to the Federal Government through the Honourable Minister, and about ₦14.6 billion was approved for the procurement of standard boats and ferries that can safely convey both passengers and agricultural produce on our inland waterways,” Oyebamiji said.

According to him, the modern vessels are being deployed to key riverine states, including Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Kebbi, where waterways serve as critical transport corridors for rural dwellers and commercial activities.

He noted that beyond improving safety, the initiative would strengthen food supply chains by enabling faster, cheaper and more reliable movement of farm produce from remote communities to urban markets.

Oyebamiji, however, stressed that infrastructure alone would not solve the sector’s challenges, pointing out that human factors account for nearly 70 per cent of inland waterway accidents, while vessel-related issues represent about 20 to 25 per cent.

“Safety is not just about boats. During one of our trainings, we discovered that some operators reported for duty under the influence of alcohol and drugs. That is a major risk. With better vessels, strict supervision, training and continuous sensitisation, we can change behaviour and save lives,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure at NIWA, Oyebamiji said the agency was once largely defined by frequent boat mishaps but underwent a significant turnaround following reforms that prioritised staff welfare, motivation and stakeholder engagement.

“When I assumed office, we listened to our workers and deliberately engaged journalists as partners through management by objective. Without recruiting new staff, the same workforce delivered about 75 to 80 per cent improvement in performance,” he stated.

Now the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Oyebamiji used the forum to seek the continued support of the maritime media as he transitions into partisan politics, assuring them that transparency, accountability and people-centred leadership would remain the pillars of his public service.

“I believe in engaging the media, listening to criticism and improving governance. As I move forward, I will continue to count on your professionalism and partnership,” he said.

Earlier, Chairman of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists, Mr. Frank Meke, commended Oyebamiji for his accessibility, encouragement and concern for journalists’ welfare during his time at NIWA.

Meke said Oyebamiji’s open-door policy strengthened maritime reporting and helped project reforms in the inland waterways sector.

“Your support for maritime journalists enhanced our capacity to report the sector objectively and constructively. This nomination as Most Friendly Maritime CEO is our way of recognising your people-focused leadership,” Meke said while presenting the letter of nomination.

In his response, Oyebamiji described the honour as a reflection of accountability and constructive engagement between regulators and the media.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting maritime journalism and inland waterways development, describing the ₦14.6 billion boat procurement programme as one of the most strategic interventions yet aimed at restoring safety, productivity and public confidence on Nigeria’s inland waters.