By Seun Ibiyemi
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has intensified its campaign on marine safety and environmental protection in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sensitising waterfront communities on safe navigation and the need to protect the nation’s inland waterways as the rainy season reaches its peak.
The awareness campaign, organised by the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office, was held on Wednesday at Abaji Area Council as part of efforts to reduce water transport accidents and promote environmental stewardship among communities living along the waterways.
The exercise reinforced safe navigation practices and environmental protection in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government’s policy of zero tolerance for water transportation accidents and safety infractions.
Speaking at the event, the Area Manager of the Abuja Area/Liaison Office, Hajia Aisha Eri, appreciated the host communities for their cooperation and reaffirmed NIWA’s commitment to protecting inland waterways and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
READ ALSO:CBN warns banks, businesses against rejecting standard ₦100 note
She said the authority would continue to engage riverine communities through sustained awareness campaigns aimed at promoting compliance with safety regulations and preserving the aquatic environment.
The Emir of Kwali, HRH Alhaji Adamu Saba Aguma, commended NIWA for the initiative and pledged the support of traditional institutions in ensuring strict adherence to waterway safety regulations.
Other traditional rulers, including the District Head of Kundu, John Dogole; Sarkin Tungbufu, Mohammed Yusuf; Sarkin Nassarawa, Ayahaya Nassarawa; Sarkin Kutara, Musa Wabai; Sarkin Kwago and Padama, Musa Alanana; and Sarkin Kwakwa, Abdullahi Kwakwa, also lauded the enlightenment campaign and assured the agency of their communities’ commitment to implementing the safety measures.
NIWA said the sensitisation programme forms part of a nationwide directive by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, mandating regular engagement with littoral communities to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, has also directed all area offices nationwide to accord the initiative top priority as part of efforts to reduce boat mishaps and enhance environmental protection.
The authority said the Abuja Area Office would extend the campaign to other waterfront communities across the FCT in the coming weeks as part of its broader strategy to strengthen safety awareness during the peak rainy season.
