The Acting Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Alhaji Yusuf Girei, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to implementing maritime policies that deliver safer waterways, reliable infrastructure and sustainable economic growth.
In his goodwill message marking the 2026 World Maritime Day celebration, Girei congratulated maritime stakeholders and commended their contributions to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The celebration, themed “From Policy to Practice: Powering Excellence,” was attended by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON; the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood, FSM, MCIPM; the event’s chairperson and keynote speaker, Mrs. Mfon Usoro; directors and heads of departments; chief executives of agencies under the ministry; members of the diplomatic corps; industry stakeholders; and media representatives.
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Speaking on the significance of the theme, Girei said effective policies must translate into practical actions that improve safety, infrastructure and economic opportunities across the maritime sector.
“This year’s theme reminds us that strong policies create value only when they are translated into meaningful action. In the maritime sector, that means safer waterways, reliable infrastructure, environmental stewardship and services that support trade and economic growth,” he said.
He noted that NIWA remained committed to collaborating with state governments, industry stakeholders, host communities and development partners to improve navigation, strengthen safety standards, modernise facilities and protect waterways that sustain numerous livelihoods.
The NIWA chief also emphasised that achieving excellence in the maritime sector required collective responsibility, skilled professionals, effective regulation, investment in innovation and a strong commitment to safety and environmental sustainability.
“By working together, we can build a maritime sector that is competitive, inclusive and prepared for the future,” he added.
Girei commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and other stakeholders for their contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry. He also urged participants to translate their shared commitments into measurable results.
A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards to winners of the Primary School Children’s Essay Competition, sponsored by NIWA.
Idris Jibril Oladimeji of Holy Cross Primary School, Lagos, emerged first and received ₦200,000 and a laptop computer. Suleiman Aisha of St. Paul’s Anglican School, Lagos Island, came second, winning ₦150,000 and a laptop computer.
Yahaya Aliyah of St. Mathias Girls Primary School, Lagos, took third place and received ₦100,000 and a laptop computer.
The competition formed part of the activities celebrating World Maritime Day and highlighted the importance of encouraging young learners to engage with maritime issues and the future of the sector.
On behalf of NIWA’s Board, Management and staff, Girei wished stakeholders a successful World Maritime Day celebration, reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to safer inland waterways and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Signed:
Management
National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
