The Commandant General of Riverine Security, Commander Bibi Oduku, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise the development and modernisation of Nigeria’s waterways transportation system to reduce pressure on roads, ease traffic congestion and boost economic growth.
Oduku said Nigeria could no longer rely almost entirely on road transportation for the movement of people and goods despite its vast network of inland waterways and maritime resources.
He noted that the heavy movement of trailers and other trucks on Nigerian highways contributes to road accidents, traffic congestion, road deterioration and environmental pollution.
“Nigeria cannot continue to depend almost entirely on the roads for the movement of people and large volumes of goods when we have an extensive network of waterways capable of supporting a modern transportation and logistics system,” he said.
The Riverine Security boss urged the Federal Government and relevant agencies to invest in modern jetties, terminals, navigation systems, cargo facilities, marine communication and waterways safety infrastructure.
He called for closer collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, National Inland Waterways Authority, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated waterways transportation strategy.
Oduku said a properly developed waterways system would improve the movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products and manufactured goods while creating jobs and attracting private-sector investment.
He also urged the government to address infrastructure and social challenges confronting riverine communities, particularly in the Niger Delta, and called on oil and gas companies to contribute more actively to the development of their host communities.
On maritime security, Oduku said piracy, militancy and other criminal activities should not discourage investment in waterways transportation, stressing that infrastructure development and security must progress together.
He advocated the development of a comprehensive National Waterways Transportation Master Plan to integrate inland waterways with seaports, roads and rail networks.
According to him, Nigeria needs the political will, investment, modern technology, effective regulation and sustained security to unlock the full economic potential of its waterways.
“Investing in Nigeria’s waterways is investing in safer transportation, economic growth, national security, job creation and the future of our nation,” Oduku said.
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