The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is seeking increased collaboration with state governments to enhance the safety and security of inland waterways transportation.

A statement on Thursday in Lagos said Bola Oyebamiji, managing director/chief executive officer, NIWA, spoke at a forum organised by the Nigeria Transportation Commissioners’ Forum in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The forum, with the theme: “Prevalent Safety, Security Hazards and Practices in Inland Waterways, Passenger Transport Safety”, sought to address the pressing issues facing the inland waterways sector.

Mr Oyebamiji appealed to commissioners for transportation across relevant states to collaborate with NIWA in areas such as training, safety campaigns, infrastructure development, and financial empowerment.

He stressed that while the challenges are significant, they are surmountable through collective action.

Mr Oyebamiji emphasised the critical role of safety and security in fostering a thriving water transportation system.

He acknowledged the ongoing efforts by NIWA to improve safety, such as the recent unveiling of the transportation code for public use.

“Also, the inauguration of several operational assets, including survey boats, gunboats, water ambulances, and a passenger ferry.

“Safety campaigns have been launched across all operational bases, targeting local communities in their native languages,” he said.

The NIWA managing director highlighted the support from the National Assembly, including the ongoing discussions on establishing coastal guards.

He noted that safety and security on inland waterways had also received attention from the House Committee on Inland Waterways.

Mr Oyebamiji expressed optimism for actionable and implementable outcomes from the forum, which he believed would contribute significantly to ensuring safer and more secure inland waterways.

(NAN)