NIWA BOOSTS SAFETY AWARENESS DRIVE IN ABUJA

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By:Tajudeen Aminat

As the rainy season brings rising water levels and increased pollution risks, the National Inland Waterways Authority has intensified efforts to educate waterfront communities in the Federal Capital Territory on water safety and environmental conservation.

The NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office disclosed this during a Marine Safety and Environmental Protection Campaign held in Abaji Area Council on Wednesday, according to a statement obtained by The Press on Thursday.

According to the statement, the campaign reinforced safe navigation practices and encouraged environmental responsibility among residents living along inland waterways.

“It is in direct alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the provisions of federal law, which enshrine zero tolerance for waterway transportation accidents and infractions,” the statement said.

Addressing participants, the Abuja Area Manager, Aisha Eri, expressed appreciation to the host communities for their cooperation and support.

She reaffirmed NIWA’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s inland waterways while protecting the lives and livelihoods of people who depend on them.

The Emir of Kwali, Alhaji Adamu Aguma, praised the authority for the initiative and pledged the community’s full support in preserving the waterways and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Other district heads who attended the event also welcomed the sensitisation campaign and assured NIWA of their commitment to implementing the safety measures shared during the exercise.

The awareness campaign forms part of a nationwide directive by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, mandating sustained engagement with littoral communities across the country.

In line with the directive, the Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Alhaji Umar Girei, has instructed all Area Offices to prioritise the campaign.

The Abuja Area Office is expected to extend the sensitisation exercise to other waterfront communities within and around the FCT next week.