NIWA Reaffirms Commitment to Safer Waterways, Maritime Excellence
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving waterway safety, upgrading infrastructure and promoting sustainable economic growth as Nigeria joined the global community to celebrate the 2026 World Maritime Day.
The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Yusuf Girei, stated this in his goodwill message at the celebration held on Friday, October 16, 2026, in Abuja.
The event, themed “From Policy to Practice: Powering Excellence,” brought together the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola; the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood; the chairperson and keynote speaker, Mrs. Mfon Usoro; directors, heads of departments, chief executives of agencies under the ministry, members of the diplomatic corps, industry stakeholders and the media.
Girei congratulated maritime stakeholders on the celebration and commended their contributions to the development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He noted that the theme underscored the importance of translating policies into practical actions capable of delivering measurable improvements across the sector.
“This year’s theme reminds us that strong policies create value only when they are translated into meaningful action. In the maritime sector, that means safer waterways, reliable infrastructure, environmental stewardship and services that support trade and economic growth,” he said.
The NIWA chief reiterated the Authority’s commitment to collaborating with state governments, industry stakeholders, host communities and development partners to improve navigation, strengthen safety standards, modernise facilities and protect inland waterways.
According to him, achieving excellence in the maritime industry requires skilled professionals, effective regulation, investment in innovation and a strong commitment to safety and environmental sustainability.
“By working together, we can build a maritime sector that is competitive, inclusive and prepared for the future,” Girei added.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, the Permanent Secretary and other stakeholders for their contributions to the growth of the maritime sector.
He urged participants to move beyond shared commitments and ensure that policies and initiatives produce tangible results for the industry and the wider economy.
A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards to winners of the Primary School Children’s Essay Competition sponsored by NIWA.
Idris Jibril Oladimeji of Holy Cross Primary School, Lagos, emerged first and received ₦200,000 in cash and a laptop computer.
Suleiman Aisha of St. Paul’s Anglican School, Lagos Island, came second, winning ₦150,000 and a laptop, while Yahaya Aliyah of St. Mathias Girls Primary School, Lagos, secured third place with ₦100,000 and a laptop computer.
Girei participated in the presentation of awards to the young participants, highlighting NIWA’s support for initiatives that encourage learning and promote awareness of the maritime sector among schoolchildren.
The Acting Managing Director, on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of NIWA, wished maritime stakeholders a successful World Maritime Day celebration, reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to safer inland waterways and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
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