By Janefrances Chibuzor
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with boat operators to improve safety, upgrade water transport infrastructure, and reduce accidents across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Speaking at the Elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), held at Kapital Klub and Apartments, Asokoro, Abuja, Mrs. Aisha Eri, Area Manager of the NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office, represented the Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei.
Mrs. Eri commended ATBOWATON for its continued efforts to promote professionalism and safety in the water transport sector, assuring members of NIWA’s continued partnership in advancing safer and more efficient inland waterway operations.
The AGM also returned Dr. Ganiyu “Tarzan” Balogun as National President of ATBOWATON for another term.
Delegates endorsed plans to amend the association’s constitution to introduce fixed tenures for elected executives, a move aimed at strengthening internal governance, accountability, and democratic leadership.
Members also highlighted the persistent shortage of life jackets nationwide, urging NIWA to increase the provision of safety equipment to enhance passenger protection and reduce fatalities on the nation’s waterways.
The meeting brought together boat operators, industry stakeholders, and government representatives to discuss strategies for improving water transport, promoting safety standards, and fostering sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime tourism sector.
