Kogi State Governor Affirms Support for National Inland Waterways Authority Initiatives
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has committed his administration to partnering with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enhance Nigeria’s blue economy through the state’s extensive river networks. His pledge came during a recent courtesy visit from Barrister Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, Chairman of the NIWA Board of Directors, and the agency’s management team, including Managing Director Yusuf Umar Jiry.
Kogi State Positioned as Nigeria’s Gateway to Inland Navigation
In a statement distributed by Shagari’s media aide, Musa Ubandawaki, Governor Ododo highlighted Kogi State’s strategic location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers as a significant advantage for internal trade and transportation. He expressed confidence in the capacity of the state to serve as Nigeria’s natural gateway for inland navigation.
Commitment to Sustainable Economic Growth
Ododo emphasized his administration’s commitment to collaborating with NIWA to unlock the potential of the state’s waterways. He stated that these natural assets could act as catalysts for sustainable economic growth, driving investment, wealth creation, and job opportunities.
Alignment with Federal Policies on Blue Economy
The governor reiterated his government’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “New Hope” agenda and the federal blue economy initiative. He highlighted that the development of inland waterways would stimulate sectors such as commerce, agriculture, tourism, fishing, and logistics, ultimately boosting the local economy.
Support for River Transportation Infrastructure Projects
Governor Ododo assured the NIWA Board of his administration’s full support for various projects focused on enhancing river transportation infrastructure. These efforts aim to improve navigation, strengthen safety standards, and attract private investments into the sector.
Reducing Strain on Federal Highways
The governor also stated that increased investment in inland waterway transportation could alleviate pressure on federal highways, promote efficient movement of agricultural products and goods, and foster regional integration throughout river basin communities.
Prioritizing Collaboration to Unlock Economic Value
During the meeting, Shagari articulated that the visit aimed to deepen collaboration between federal agencies and Kogi State to leverage the economic value in the state’s waterways. He underscored Kogi’s unique endowment of inland waterways and called for proper utilization to transform sectors such as agriculture and logistics.
Focus on Infrastructure Development and Job Creation
Shagari identified several priority areas for collaboration, including the development and rehabilitation of piers, dredging of navigable waterways, enhancing waterway security, and mobilizing private investment in river infrastructure. He expressed the authority’s commitment to generating sustainable job opportunities for Nigerians through industries like ferry operations and shipbuilding.
Optimism for Future Partnerships
Both parties concluded their discussions with optimism regarding the potential for this partnership to accelerate infrastructure development, expand regional trade, and reduce transportation costs. This collaboration is set to solidify Kogi’s role as a pivotal hub in Nigeria’s inland navigation and blue economy landscape.
