The National Inland Waterways Authority has intensified efforts to improve safety and environmental protection across waterfront communities in the Federal Capital Territory as the rainy season brings rising water levels and increased risks on inland waterways.
The campaign, organised by the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office, took place in Abaji Area Council and focused on educating residents on safe navigation practices and environmental conservation.
According to NIWA, the sensitisation exercise is aimed at reducing water transportation accidents while promoting responsible use of the nation’s inland waterways.
The authority said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to improving safety on Nigeria’s waterways and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.
Speaking during the campaign, the Abuja Area Manager, Aisha Eri, appreciated the cooperation of the host communities and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods.
“We remain committed to safeguarding the nation’s inland waterways and ensuring the safety of the people whose livelihoods depend on them. Community cooperation is vital to achieving this objective,” Eri said.
The Emir of Kwali, Alhaji Adamu Aguma, commended NIWA for bringing the awareness campaign to the area and pledged the support of traditional institutions in promoting safety measures.
“Our communities will continue to support efforts aimed at protecting the waterways, and we will encourage residents to comply fully with all safety regulations,” the monarch said.
District heads and other community leaders who attended the programme also welcomed the initiative, assuring NIWA of their commitment to implementing the safety practices highlighted during the exercise.
The agency said the campaign forms part of a nationwide directive by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, mandating regular engagement with riverine and littoral communities to improve safety and environmental protection.
NIWA added that its Acting Managing Director, Alhaji Umar Girei, has directed all area offices to give the campaign top priority, with the Abuja Area Office expected to extend the sensitisation programme to other waterfront communities across the FCT in the coming days.
