The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has announced a new partnership with Parts Central Limited aimed at addressing the pressing issue of pollution and indiscriminate dumping in Nigeria’s inland waterways. This initiative, revealed at a recent event in Lagos, seeks to implement structured waste management and recycling systems to enhance the health of the nation’s waterways, while also promoting economic opportunities for local communities.

Engr. Sarat Braimah, the Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, emphasized the critical role that clean waterways play in supporting the Federal Government’s Blue Economy agenda. "Making the blue economy work starts from making our waterways clean; if the waterways are clean, navigation will be easy. If the water is clean, it will create jobs for even our youth," she stated. Braimah highlighted that approximately one-third of Lagos State is covered by water, underscoring the importance of maintaining these waterways for the economic activities and livelihoods of residents.

The initiative aims to identify pollution sources, improve navigability, and conserve aquatic biodiversity, all while creating jobs for riverine communities. Henry Onifade, Managing Director of Parts Central Ltd, expressed the company’s commitment to utilizing technology to enhance the safety and sustainability of waterfronts, landing ports, and jetties. "Our waterways must not only be clean, they must be safe, productive and sustainable," he asserted.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, noted the significance of collaboration between federal and state governments in safeguarding the waterways. He remarked that clean and safe waterways are vital for fishing, navigation, and the broader waterfront economy, which is essential for the state’s growth.

The initiative has also garnered support from law enforcement, with U.M. Ogechi, Deputy Commissioner of Police, representing the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police. Ogechi stressed the economic importance of maritime activities and warned that polluted waterways pose risks to aquatic life, boat operators, and passengers.

Furthermore, Bolaji Mustapha, President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Operators (NATOP), emphasized that clean waterways are crucial for the development of water-based tourism, which can further boost local economies. High Chief Lateef Rufai, the Odofin of Onisiwo, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the detrimental impact of waste dumped into waterways on waterfront communities.

This collaborative effort between NIWA and Parts Central is expected to pave the way for a cleaner, safer, and more economically viable future for Nigeria’s inland waterways, benefiting both the environment and local communities.