Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) and SEALINK Promotional Company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (M.O.U.) that recognizes the pivotal role of Inland Waterways in national economic development.
A statement issued by NIWA on Sunday explained that the tripartite MoU is a deliberate attempt to bridge the infrastructure gap and provide an alternative mode of transportation for evacuation of economic goods and persons on the nation’s Inland Waterways.
General Manager, Corporate Affairs, NIWA, Tayo Fadile said: “NIWA is delighted to partner with NEXIM and SEALINK promotional company and its strategic Consortium partners in the facilitation of bulk cargo movement on inland waterways and promoting hinterland and transit trade”.
He added: “The MOU will hopefully encourage efficient transportation system in line with global best practices that is safe, seamless and affordable. It will also support River Port Development, and modernization of existing NIWA facilities across the nation.
“The MOU will support the survey, underwater engineering works, removable and
disposal of wrecks among several other projects geared towards improving and developing inland waterways navigation.
“By the time the M.O.U. is fully implemented, Nigeria’s Inland Waterways will never be the same. This is good news to all stakeholders on Nigerian Inland Waterways.
“This positive development will better position NIWA to provide ways and means on Nigerian Waters”.
