The Lagos Area Office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has deployed a task force to clear the build-up of water weeds popularly known as water hyacinth around the Ikorodu area.

The Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, Sarat Braimah, confirmed this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

Ms Braimah said the move was part of proactive efforts to prevent the weeds from disrupting boat transportation and other waterway activities in the littoral communities.

She said, “The NIWA team, supported by heavy-duty equipment including swamp devils, harvesters, and other relevant machinery, has commenced preliminary clearing operations around Ebute Ikorodu and Ikpakodo ferry terminals.The exercise is intended to ensure that the waterways remain navigable and free from obstructions caused by the invasive aquatic weed.”

Ms Braimah said the deployment of the taskforce was a preventive measure designed to guarantee the smooth movement of goods and passengers through the Ikorodu waterways.

She stated, “We have carefully studied the pattern and spread of the water hyacinth phenomenon and have chosen to act swiftly to mitigate its impact before it causes disruption to boat and ferry operations. Beyond transportation, we are also mindful of the effects on local fishing activities. The earlier we address the problem, the better.

“My boss, the Managing Director of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji, has awarded the contract to tackle the menace of water hyacinth across the country to ensure smooth passage of movement of goods and passengers. I will personally be on the ground throughout the week to monitor the progress of the operation, by the contractors.”

(NAN)