ATBOWATON Commends NIWA, Urges Greater Support for Waterway Safety
The Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON) has commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its sustained efforts in promoting safety and efficiency across Nigeria’s waterways.
During a courtesy visit to NIWA’s Abuja Area/Liaison Office, ATBOWATON leadership congratulated Acting Managing Director, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, and Area Manager, Mrs. Aisha Eri, on their recent appointments.
Speaking on behalf of the union, National President Dr. Gani Tarzan Balogun praised NIWA’s consistent support for operators nationwide, particularly its deliberate focus on safety measures in the South West region. He, however, highlighted the acute shortage of life jackets as a pressing challenge, urging NIWA to prioritize the provision of safety equipment to protect passengers and crew.
Dr. Balogun further emphasized that enhancing the navigability of inland waterways would ease pressure on Nigeria’s roads, offering commuters and cargo operators a safer and more efficient alternative to road transport.
Responding, Acting MD Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei assured the delegation that NIWA had already begun addressing many of the concerns raised, noting that interventions were underway even before the visit.
Area Manager Mrs. Aisha Eri described the visit as a welcome development, encouraging ATBOWATON members to contribute their expertise to strengthening water transportation in the Federal Capital Territory.
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