From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Oyetola
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola on Tuesday, unveiled Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023, to boost effective services of water transportation system along the riverine communities.
The unveiling of the water transportation regulations according to the minister, would go a long way in safeguarding the system for better services.
“This unveiling of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations marks my maiden official visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority headquarters in Lokoja. It is aimed at ensuring the development and safety of the marine transportation system” the minister said.
Adegboyega while performing the ceremony, called on the management of NIWA to ensure the enforcement of the regulations for optimum productivity.
He admonished operators of the system to strictly comply with the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations which he assured would go a long way in reducing marine transportation accidents.
“The regulations would also reduce risks associated with marine transportation as well as ensuring compliance with international standards
“It will equally strengthen the activities of NIWA for fruitful results. Federal government is determined to boost marine industry as part of its task to revitalised the nation’s dwindling economy. I also wish to commend NIWA for its intervention in regulating the conduct of marine passengers”
The minister also during the visit inaugurated eight landmark projects executed by NIWA and commended management of the organisation for its giant strides.
Among the projects commissioned includes; Administrative Building, Staff Clinic, Reception Building, Police Building, Fire Fighting Equipment, Hydrographic Boats, 62-seater Passenger Boat and Water Ambulances, Watercrafts.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji, promised an open door policy where the development of Waterways transportation would prevail.
He recalled that since assumption of office seven months ago, his administration had faced challenges such occurrence of water accidents and risks disclosing that no fewer than three fatal boat mishaps were recorded.
He told the minister that his administration would not relent in looking inward toward finding lasting solutions to the problems.
Oyebamiji said that he will continue to give priority to training of staff in their various disciplines to enhance efficiency and productivity in service delivery.
“My administration will also embark on enlightenment campaign on marine transportation policies and programmes, regulate conduct of passengers and workings of water transportation”
In his goodwill message, the Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo president Tinubu for appointment of technocrats like Adegboyega as minister of federal republic of Nigeria.
The governor who was represented by his deputy, Salifu Joel Oyibo, expressed confident in the ability of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega, to bring more innovation in the Marine business.
