Delta State: NIWA Hails 25 Years Of Accident-Free Boating On Aboh-Ndoni Waterways
By Roland Ekama
The management of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Warri ,Delta State recently celebrated a major safety milestone at a sensitization event in Aboh, commending local boat operators for 25 straight years without a single accident on the vital River Niger route between Aboh and Ndoni.
Delivering the opening speech, NIWA’s Area Manager for Warri, Mr. Rufus Oladimeji, praised the operators’ union for their “remarkable” dedication to safety protocols.
Oladimeji who spoke at a sensitization safety program on operational safety put together by NIWA, pointed out that”Your commitment sets a shining example for all maritime stakeholders,” he told gathered community members, union reps, and guests.
” This stretch, linking key Delta State communities along River Niger and into Rivers areas, has become a model of reliable, accident-free transport.”
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According to him, the event focused on reinforcing safe boating amid the festive season rush.
Oladimeji urged strict adherence to key practices:Safe Navigation: Always follow navigational rules.Life Jackets: Wear approved ones before boarding.Vessel Maintenance: Keep boats seaworthy—no rickety vessels allowed.Weather Awareness: Check forecasts and plan trips wisely.Emergency Preparedness: Know response steps for crises.
He further called on security agents, regulators, and operators to enforce NIWA’s marine safety code collectively.
The NIWA Boss also thanked partners like the Nigerian Police for their role in upholding compliance.Looking ahead, the agency outlined plans to ramp up safety campaigns, operator training, and infrastructure upgrades with government support.
He noted that “Let’s ensure our waterways remain a safe source of prosperity and connection, while rallying stakeholders to sustain the streak.
Meanwhile, operators and locals hailed the achievement as proof of disciplined collaboration, with hopes it inspires safer travel across Delta’s inland routes.