The National Inland Waterways Authority has emerged as Maritime Agency of the Year 2025, following a dramatic 70 per cent reduction in boat mishaps across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
The honour, which underscores a year of intensified safety reforms and enforcement, places the Authority at the forefront of maritime risk reduction and passenger protection nationwide.
Details of the recognition were contained in a press statement issued by Suleiman Makama, Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs, of the Authority.
The award was conferred at the 2025 Award and Dinner Night organised by New Telegraph, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Authority, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, dedicated the honour to NIWA’s workforce and its immediate past Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB.
Girei described the recognition as a validation of the Authority’s institutional resolve to prioritise safety, professionalism and accountability on Nigeria’s waterways.
He noted that the award would further energise staff to deepen reforms and sustain the momentum recorded in 2025.
Central to NIWA’s achievement, he said, was the implementation of the Inland Waterways Transportation Code, complemented by stricter compliance measures across operational corridors.
The deployment of trained water marshals to enforce safety regulations, monitor operators and curb risky practices was also highlighted as a game-changer.
Industry watchers say the 70 per cent drop in mishaps reflects a coordinated strategy that blends regulation, enforcement and stakeholder engagement.
With the accolade, NIWA is expected to consolidate gains and push for even higher safety benchmarks on the nation’s inland waterways.