NIWA Tasks Kebbi State Govt To Boost Waterways Transportation

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has called on the Kebbi State Government to encourage and support operators of waterways mode of transportation in the state.

According to a statement Signed by Jibril, Darda`u , Ag. General Manager (Corporate Affairs) NIWA has also commissioned a 36 seater ferry boat at Yelwa – Yauri, Kebbi State recently.

In his opening remarks, The Managing Director of NIWA Chief Dr. George N. Moghalu, further stated that “the importance of water transportation cannot be over emphasized for both facilitating the transportation of cargoes and personnel in strengthening our economy and at the same time exploring tourism potentials of water transportation.

“I am also appealing to the government of Kebbi State to encourage NIWA by assisting it to ensure companies, organizations and the public that are using NIWA`s Right of Ways which is one hundred metres perpendicular from the point of River must made to pay their legitimate fees”.

He also thanked God for the opportunity given to the Authority to procure the 36 seater ferry boat on behalf of Distinguished Senator, Bala Ibn Na`Allah as part of his constituency project.

The MD also acknowledged the kind support given to NIWA by the Yauri Emirate council in fulfilling its official responsibilities, He also appreciate the Distinguished Senator for his commitment and desire to create the enabling environment for water transportation to grow.

In his speech, distinguished Senator Bala Ibn Na`Allah promised to bring more developments to his people as the ferry being commissioned is just the beginning as two more ferries are on their way coming, one from Lagos and the other from China.

He also said, in addition to the Jetties he has built before in the Area, he is also planning in conjunction with NIWA to build a ferry terminal.

Thereafter, the Emir of Yelwa – Yauri HRH. Dr. Muhammed Zayyanu Abdullahi (CON) cut the tape to commission the new ferry boat for the general use of his people and there was a boat ride in compliance with the covid-19 safety protocols.

Earlier, the Managing Director of NIWA paid a courtesy call to the Emir of Yauri, during the visit the Emir raised three critical issues in the areas of litigations, clearing of water hyacinth/removal of wrecks and the development of the Inland Waterways for the optimum benefit of his people.

Responding, the MD of NIWA promised to address all the issues raised by the Royal Father.