The former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr Bola Oyebamiji, has disclosed that the Federal Government has approved ₦14.6 billion for the procurement of modern boats and ferries to strengthen passenger transportation across inland waterways in several riverine states, including Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Kebbi.
Oyebamiji made this known in Osun State late Thursday while receiving a delegation of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists on a courtesy visit, during which he was presented with a letter of nomination as the “Most Friendly Maritime CEO.”
He explained that inland water transportation in many hinterland states had long been hindered by the use of obsolete wooden boats and unsafe operational practices, often leading to avoidable accidents.
“I presented a paper to the Federal Government through the Honourable Minister, and about ₦14.6 billion was approved for the procurement of standard boats and ferries capable of safely conveying passengers and agricultural produce on inland waterways,” Oyebamiji said.
According to him, the initiative is expected to reduce dependence on unsafe vessels and improve the transportation of farm produce from rural communities to urban markets, thereby strengthening food supply chains.
Oyebamiji noted that while wooden boats account for about 20 to 25 per cent of challenges on inland waters, human factors contribute nearly 70 per cent of accidents, stressing the need for training, discipline and improved safety compliance among operators.
“There was a time I organised training and discovered some operators came under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Safety is not only about vessels; it is also about behaviour. With better boats, supervision and sensitisation, we can change that culture,” he stated.
Reflecting on reforms implemented during his tenure, Oyebamiji said NIWA had previously been widely associated with boat mishaps until efforts were made to improve staff welfare, motivation and stakeholder engagement.
“When I came into NIWA, we listened to workers and engaged journalists as part of management by objective. Without employing new staff, the same workforce delivered about 75 to 80 per cent improvement.”
Now the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Oyebamiji also used the occasion to seek continued support from maritime journalists as he transitions into politics.
He emphasised that transparency, accountability and people-focused leadership, which he said characterised his leadership at NIWA, would also guide his political journey.
Earlier, Chairman of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists, Mr Frank Meke, commended Oyebamiji for his accessibility and support for journalists during his time at NIWA, noting that his leadership helped improve maritime reporting and public awareness of reforms in the inland waterways sector.
Presenting the nomination letter, Meke described the honour as recognition of Oyebamiji’s people-centred leadership and support for the maritime media.
Receiving the honour, Oyebamiji said the recognition symbolised accountability and cooperation between regulators and the media, pledging continued support for maritime journalism and inland waterways development.
He added that the ₦14.6 billion boat procurement initiative remains a strategic intervention aimed at improving safety and productivity on Nigeria’s inland waters.