FG Approves N14.6bn for Modern Boats to Boost Inland Water Transport Safety

The Federal Government has approved N14.6 billion for the purchase of modern standard boats and ferries to replace unsafe wooden vessels and improve safety, trade, and passenger movement on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Coalition of Maritime Journalists in Osun State, where he was also presented with a nomination letter as the “Most Friendly Maritime Chief Executive Officer.”

Oyebamiji explained that the new boats and ferries would be deployed mainly to riverine states such as Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, and Kebbi, where waterways remain vital transport routes for communities and commercial activities.

According to him, the approval followed a proposal he submitted through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola.

“I presented a paper to the Federal Government through the minister, and about N14.6 billion was approved for the procurement of standard boats and ferries capable of safely carrying agricultural products and passengers,” Oyebamiji said.

He noted that inland water transport in many hinterland states has long been hindered by outdated wooden boats and unsafe practices, leading to avoidable accidents.

Oyebamiji stated that the procurement would reduce dependence on unsafe vessels and strengthen food supply chains by ensuring quicker and cheaper transportation of farm produce from rural areas to urban markets.

He further stressed that while wooden boats contribute about 20 to 25 per cent of challenges on inland waterways, human factors account for nearly 70 per cent of accidents.

“Safety is not only about vessels; it is also about behaviour. With better boats, supervision, and sensitisation, we can change that culture,” he said, recalling instances where operators were found under the influence of drugs or alcohol during training programmes.

Reflecting on NIWA’s transformation under his leadership, Oyebamiji said the agency shifted from being associated mainly with mishaps to focusing on staff welfare, motivation, and stakeholder engagement.

Now the APC governorship candidate in Osun State, Oyebamiji also appealed for continued media support as he moves into politics, promising transparency and people-centred leadership.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists, Mr. Frank Meke, commended Oyebamiji for his accessibility and support for journalists, describing the nomination as recognition of his inclusive leadership.

Receiving the honour, Oyebamiji said the recognition symbolised accountability and cooperation between regulators and the media.