Gov Ododo assured NIWA of partnership for improve water transport.

The Governor of Kogi state, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed his commitment to strengthening collaboration with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for improve water transportation, enhance safety on the nation’s waterways, and promote economic development.

Gov Ododo gave the assurance in Government House Lokoja while playing host to the chairman board of Directors  Barr. Mukhtari Shehu Shagari and his management theme.

Gov Ododo said he would initiate a joint committee with NIWA to develop a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable development of Inland Waterways in Kogi state. 

The governor noted that joint committee will workout the construction and rehabilitation of jetties in rural communities, improve water transport infrastructure, and create employment opportunities for young people across the state.

He expressed appreciation to the NIWA management for the visit, describing it as a significant step towards fostering stronger cooperation between the state government and the authority.

He also expressed optimism that the partnership would accelerate the development of inland waterways in Kogi and across the country.

Earlier, Chairman of NIWA Board of Directors, Barr. Mukhtari Shehu Shagari, noted that Kogi State occupies a strategic position due to its extensive inland waterways, which, if properly harnessed, could significantly contribute to the economic growth of both the state and the nation.

He explained that NIWA’s efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Blue Economy agenda and reiterated the authority’s commitment to working closely with the Kogi State Government to unlock the vast potential of the state’s waterways.

Shagari said NIWA would seek the state’s collaboration in the development and rehabilitation of jetties and landing sites, dredging and maintenance of navigable channels, promotion of safe water transportation, and strengthening security and safety along inland waterways.

He assured Governor Ododo of NIWA’s readiness to partner with the state in transforming Kogi’s waterways into a major driver of sustainable development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Government’s Blue Economy Vision.

The NIWA delegation included the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Yusuf Umar Girei; General Manager, Human Resources and Administration, Abdullahi Dabai; General Manager, Procurement, Ibrahim Sade; General Manager, Audit, Japhet Maisaje; General Manager, Planning, Research and Statistics, Muazu Dan’azumi; General Manager, Engineering, Engr. Fidelis Ejike; General Manager, Ports and Environment, Engr. Titus Adoga; and Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Suleiman Makama.