FG commissions 15 boats in Kogi to boost water transportation

By Odimayo Olatunde Fredrick, Kogi

The Federal Government on Tuesday commissioned 15 boats of different capacity to boost water transportation in Kogi State and other parts of the Country.

The Minister of Marine and blue economy, Adegboyega Oyetola who spoke to newsmen during the Commissioning that took place at the National Inland Water Authority, (NIWA) headquarter in Lokoja, said the commissioning of the new boats is in line with the renewed hope of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to the former Osun State Governor, the maritime sector plays a strategic role in the nations economy, adding that, the present administration is fully committed in ensuring that, the land water ways are well utilized both in terms of cargo shipment and passengers transportation.

“Out of 15 boats we are commissioning today, it comprises of three with 150 horse power to ensure that NIWA Police officers are more visible. We also have five boat with double scintillating horse power for enforcement of safety rules and regulations. Another is one gun patrol boat, combat ready with five horse power for emergency response to security threat and 162 seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace the wooden passenger canon.

“We also have three fully equipped water ambulances for prompt response to emergencies and many more. The inauguration of this projects is in further fulfilment of our commitment to ensuring that our in land water ways are well utilized both in terms of cargo shipment and passengers transportation.

“We are all aware, the need to improve Nigeria manners of trade which is very crucial in strengthening the value of the naira and creating employment in line with Mr President policy agenda. Considering the strategic role that the maritime sector plays in actualizing this noble objective, the Federal Ministry of Marine and blue economy is determined to ensure the actualization of the comparative advantages that our maritime resources present.

He added that the Ministry is currently engaging with relevant stakeholders to finalize the arrangements and disbursement of funds for the development of the maritime sector.

The Minister called on the private sector to explore and utilize the opportunity in the maritime sector for possible investment and partnership with government to enhance growth and ensure sustainable development.

Earlier in a remark, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, National Inland Water Authority, (NIWA) Bola Oyebamiji recalled that three fatal boat accidents were recorded in different locations of the Country, adding that, it has made them to look inward to avert future

occurrence.

In his address, the Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo who was represented by his Deputy Joel Salifu Oyibo disclosed that the State will continue to key into the renewed hope of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.