A former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, has disclosed that the approval of N14bn by the Federal Government for the procurement of modern boats and ferries will strengthen safety, trade and passenger transportation across Nigeria’s inland waterways. Meke said Oyebamiji’s openness strengthened maritime reporting and helped project reforms in the inland waterways sector. Receiving the honour, Oyebamiji described the recognition as symbolic of accountability and cooperation between regulators and the media. He pledged continued support for maritime journalism and inland waterways development, stressing that the boat procurement initiative remains one of the most strategic interventions aimed at improving safety, productivity and confidence in Nigeria’s inland waters. Boat accidents are a persistent public safety issue in Nigeria’s inland waterways, contributing to hundreds of deaths annually and affecting many states across the country.

Source: Punch January 30, 2026 16:28 UTC