Kogi State and NIWA Agree to Boost Inland Waterway Transport

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the government of Kogi State have formalised a partnership to develop the state’s inland waterways. NIWA Chairman Barr. Mukhtari Shagari met Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo at the governor’s residence in Lokoja, reaffirming commitment to the federal Blue Economy agenda.

Both parties will create a joint committee to draft a roadmap that prioritises dredging, rehabilitation of jetties and landing sites, and the safety and security of water transport. The plan aims to generate youth employment, improve rural connectivity and turn the waterways into a sustainable growth driver for Kogi and Nigeria.

NIWA officials, including Acting Managing Director Yusuf Umar Girei and several department heads, attended the meeting and expressed readiness to work with the state on the initiative.