By Mercy Adi
The Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Marine Transport have called on the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to make dredging major rivers, including River Benue, a top priority. This move aims to tackle the rising threat of annual flooding and prevent further waterway accidents in Nigeria.
Lawmakers expressed concern over the increasing number of fatalities on the nation’s waterways, with over 400 lives lost due to boat overloading and other safety lapses. “Our waterways have become a death trap,” said Hon. Ojotu Ojeme, Chairman of the House Committee on Inland Waterways. “We need urgent reforms to protect our citizens.”
NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Nola Oyebamiji, revealed that dredging Nigeria’s waterways would cost an estimated $3.7 trillion. However, he assured that it would be a top priority in the authority’s 2025 development agenda. Oyebamiji also emphasized the need to address human negligence, which contributes significantly to accidents. “Replacing wooden boats with steel alternatives could reduce the risks,” he proposed.
Lawmakers urged the government to invest in improving waterway infrastructure, boosting economic activities, and enhancing safety measures. “We will escalate this issue by writing to the relevant ministry and, if necessary, the President,” said Senator Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni. “If NIWA is given Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), they must also be provided with the necessary funding to meet those targets.”
The committees also advocated for increased enforcement through empowered marine marshals and the establishment of a coastguard system. “In developed countries, coastguards are responsible for enforcing safety regulations and conducting search-and-rescue operations. Nigeria’s inland waterways must also be properly patrolled to curb infractions and ensure safety,” Senator Sanni added.