Nigeria's NIWA expands safety drive in Abuja, joins Kogi on waterways

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) carried out a marine safety and environmental protection campaign on Wednesday in the Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory as the rainy season peaks. The outreach targeted waterfront residents, emphasizing safe navigation and pollution control. NIWA Area Manager Hajai Aisha Eri thanked participants, while Emir of Kwali Alhaji Adamu Saba Aguma and several district heads pledged community support for the safety measures.

The campaign follows a directive from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola to intensify engagement with littoral communities. Acting Managing Director Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei ordered the program to be extended to other FCT waterfront areas.

In Lokoja, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo received a courtesy visit from NIWA Board Chairman Barrister Mukhtari Shehu Shagari and senior NIWA officials. The governor reaffirmed the state's commitment to collaborate on the Blue Economy agenda, announcing a forthcoming committee to produce a roadmap for developing jetties, landing sites and jobs. NIWA officials pledged support for dredging, channel maintenance and safety enhancements in Kogi's waterways.