The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) on Wednesday in Abuja signed a memorandum of understanding with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to advance safety on Nigerian waterways.

In his remarks, the NIWA managing director, George Moghalu, said that information from NiMet on weather conditions would guide the authority to fulfill its objectives.

According to him, many of the problems on waterways are avoidable if the right approaches are taken at the right time.

“I think collaboration has already started, today is to finalise the MoU. The relationship between the two organisations is important to actualise our mandates. We have set the mechanism and process for the MoU.

“I am sure the relationship will bring more benefits than water solution. Flood will happen, what do we do to avert it? If there is no channel for water to flow, it will find a way for itself,” he said.

Mr Moghalu stated that NIWA would keep intensifying efforts to improve and develop waterways for navigation, providing an alternative mode of transportation for the evacuation of economic goods and people.

According to him, the authority is positioned to execute the objectives of the national transport as they concern inland waterways.

Earlier, the NiMet DG, Mansur Matazu, said the agency was interested in collaborating with NIWA toward national development.

According to him, the NiMet is mandated to observe, analyze, timely and accurately report weather and climate information for all aspects of socio-economic development for the safety of lives and property.

He said that the agency`s core professional departments include Weather Forecasting Services (WFS), Applied Meteorological Services (AMS) and Research and Training (R&T).

(NAN)