MD. NATIONAL INLAND WATERWAY AUTHORITY PRAISE ON HIS PRESENTATION AT THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY.
Report by ibukunafolayan@gmail.com
National Assembly Independent Publisher
Hon Saidu Abdullahi the Chairman, House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Inland waterway appreciate the fact presentation of the Managing Director of the Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) .
Presided by the committee, the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration and addressing operational challenges in the inland waterways sector. The NIWA MD also discussed issues related to safety, regulations, and the advancement of barge operations.
The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between NIWA and the National Assembly to improve inland waterways transportation, addressing operational challenges, and advancing barge operations.
Expounding on the key topics discussed which includes: Safety regulations and enforcement
Enhancing the efficiency of barge operations.
Collaboration between NIWA and other stakeholders.
Addressing challenges faced by operators and passengers.
This meeting is part of NIWA's ongoing efforts to improve inland
waterways transportation in Nigeria
The Managing Director adverted that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is responsible for developing and managing Nigeria's inland waterways for navigation and transportation. Its duties include regulating inland water transportation, maintaining waterways, and ensuring safety standards.
He said NIWA also undertakes hydrological and hydrographic surveys, manages port facilities, and promotes the use of inland waterways for economic activities.
While detailing the key Responsibilities and Functions of NIWA which includes
Regulation and Licensing:
He submitted that
NIWA licenses and regulates inland navigation, piers, jetties, and dockyards. It also issues permits for sand dredging and other activities related to waterways.
On Waterway Management, the MD enlightened the meeting about NIWA's responsibilities for dredging, maintaining navigable channels, and ensuring the safe passage of vessels, which includes surveying, removing wrecks, and installing navigational aids.
Responding to an enquiry on infrastructure development, Mr. Oyebamiji submitted that NIWA undertakes the construction, administration, and maintenance of river ports, jetties, and related infrastructure.
He further stressed the Safety and Security imperatives as
NIWA promotes safety on the waterways by enforcing regulations, providing training, and responding to emergencies.
In relation to the current realities in the Country, the MD NIWA spoke succinctly about the Economic Development at NIWA, which includes
the facilitation of inland water transportation, which can boost agricultural and industrial sectors by enabling efficient movement of goods.
NIWA said Collaborates and Partners with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private operators, and local communities, to ensure the effective management and development of inland waterways.
While emphasizing NIWA's responsibilities towards Environmental Protection, he emphasized that NIWA works to preserve the ecological balance of the waterways and promote responsible use of water resources.
The MD gave Specific Examples of NIWA's Work which consists
Dredging Operations:
NIWA carries out capital and maintenance dredging to ensure the navigability of waterways.
Ferry Services:
NIWA operates ferry services within the inland waterways system, providing transportation options for passengers and goods.
Hydrographic Surveys:
NIWA conducts hydrological and hydrographic surveys to gather data about water depths, currents, and other relevant information.
Reacting to concerns about the Baro Port Development, he posited that the project has progressed as NIWA also develops and manages inland river ports and jetties, facilitating trade and transportation.
Having satisfactory responded to the questions on the front burner, the MD added that NIWA enforces regulations related to navigation, dredging, and other activities on the waterways, ensuring compliance and safety. foster a safer and more efficient maritime transport system.
The Ad-hoc Committee Chairman, Hon. Saidu Abdullahi sought the leaf of his colleagues and requested for all documents, information and details pertaining to NIWA'S projects development, which he said should be made available within seven days.
Satisfied with the insightful submissions of the Managing Director of NIWA and that of other stakeholders present, the Committee unanimously agreed to embark on oversight functions to ongoing
Report by ibukunafolayan@gmail.com
National Assembly Independent Publisher
@±2347031058700
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