Kogi, NIWA partner to boost inland transportation

Kogi state Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured the management of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) of his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthen collaboration in order to enhance water safety and boost inland transport in the state and the country at large.

The Governor gave the assurance when the Management of NIWA led by the chairman Board of Directors Barr. Mukhtari Shehu Shagari at his official residence in Lokoja the state capital.

Governor Ododo said his government will immediately set up a committee to work with NIWA to produce a road map for sustainable development of inland waterways in Kogi state.

He said the roadmap will focus on the development of jetties in rural communities and creating Jobs for the youths.

He thanked the management of NIWA for the visit and looked forward to a sustainable future development of the inland waterways in the country.

In his remarks, Shagari, said “Kogi state 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 His Excellency president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, NIWA remains committed to working closely with your administration to unlock the full potential of these waterways”.

According to the Board chairman, NIWA will therefore seek the collaboration and support of Kogi state in the development and rehabilitation of jetties and landing sites, dredging and maintenance of navigable channels, promotion of safe water transportation, enhancement of waterways security and safety.

He assured the readiness of NIWA to partner with the Kogi state government to ensure that inland waterways in Kogi state become a major driver of sustainable development in line with the renewed Hope Agenda and Blue Economy Vision of the federal government.

Some management staff at the visit were Yusuf Umar Girei the Acting Managing Director/ CEO NIWA, Abdullahi Dabai the General Manger (GM) human Resources and Administration, Ibrahim Sade GM (Procurement), Mr. Japhet Maisaje GM (Audit), Muazu Dan’azumi GM (Planning Research and Statistics), Engr. Fidelis Ejike GM (Engineering) Engr. Titus Adoga GM (Ports and Environment) and Suleiman Makama, AGM (Corporate Affairs).