NIWA Clears Omu Creek, Ikorodu Channels of Water Hyacinth, Activates Monitoring Team for Accident-Free Yuletide
In preparation for the anticipated surge in waterway traffic during the upcoming festive season, the Lagos office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has initiated a large-scale removal of water hyacinth across key water channels in Lagos. The effort aims to ease transportation and improve safety for waterways users as traffic ramps up toward the Yuletide season.
The project has already cleared Omu Creek, and operations are underway in the Ikorodu water channels, a process expected to take at least a week. Besides removing water hyacinth, the operation includes waste cleanup and disposal of the invasive weeds, known to obstruct boat navigation.
Engineer Sarat Braimah, NIWA’s Lagos Area Manager, highlighted that these efforts align with the agency’s mission to ensure safe and smooth sailing for all waterway users. “As we approach the Christmas holiday, we anticipate an increase in boat transport activities. The season also marks the return of water hyacinth to our waterways in Lagos. It’s critical to proactively clear these weeds, even though they have the capacity to regrow. We are committed to maintaining safe passage for boat operators through the Yuletide and beyond,” she explained.
The project will also extend to other high-traffic waterways, including Badagry and Apapa channels. However, Braimah noted that Ikorodu is a priority as it serves as an entry point from which the weeds spread to other Lagos littoral communities.
To support these efforts, NIWA has deployed its River Marshals, who will closely monitor boat operations throughout the holiday period. “It’s an intensive, costly project, but we are fully equipped for the challenge. Our teams are out there daily to ensure smooth and safe operations,” Braimah added.
