The Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON) has commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its sustained efforts to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, while calling for increased provision of life jackets to enhance passenger protection.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the association’s leadership and members to the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office on Wednesday to congratulate the Acting Managing Director of the Authority, Alhaji Umar Girei, and the Area Manager, Abuja Area/Liaison Office, Mrs. Aisha Eri, on their recent appointments.
Speaking on behalf of the association, ATBOWATON National President, Dr. Gani Balogun, praised NIWA for its continued support to water transport operators across the country.
He particularly lauded the Authority’s commitment to promoting safety on the nation’s waterways, noting that its interventions have yielded positive results, especially in the South-West.
Balogun, however, identified the shortage of life jackets as one of the most pressing challenges confronting boat operators nationwide. He urged NIWA to prioritise the provision of additional life jackets, stressing that adequate safety equipment remains essential to safeguarding passengers and crew members.
He also emphasised the need to improve the navigability of Nigeria’s inland waterways, saying a more efficient water transport system would reduce pressure on the nation’s road network by providing commuters and cargo operators with a safer and more reliable alternative.
Responding, Girei, thanked the association for the visit and assured members that the Authority had already begun addressing many of the issues raised. He noted that several interventions were already underway before the delegation’s visit.
Also speaking, the Area Manager of the Eri, described the visit as timely and encouraging. She urged ATBOWATON members to leverage their experience to support the development of water transportation within the Federal Capital Territory, expressing confidence that their collaboration with NIWA would further strengthen the sector.