BOAN, NIWA to Boost Waterways Security Through Data Sharing and Collaboration
–As Barge Operators Express Interest in Reviving NIWA’s Abandoned Jetties
By DAPO OLAWUNI
The Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) and the Lagos Area Office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have agreed to strengthen their collaboration and data sharing to address challenges and explore opportunities within Nigeria’s inland waterways sector.
This was the outcome of a courtesy visit by BOAN to NIWA on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Hon. Olumekun Olubunmi, President of BOAN, who led the association’s delegation expressed the association’s commitment to partnering with NIWA to optimize the use of waterways. He proposed policy advocacy to mandate a percentage of cargo movement via barges to alleviate road congestion.
In response, NIWA’s Lagos Area Manager, Engr. Sarat Braimah, welcomed the renewed collaboration but cautioned BOAN against pushing for new policies without first ensuring adequate barge capacity.
She advised BOAN to expand its operations beyond Lagos and highlighted that NIWA holds crucial riverine data that is available upon request for operational planning.
The meeting addressed several key issues, including operational capacity, even as BOAN expressed interest in using NIWA’s abandoned jetties. While NIWA acknowledged that some jetties are not under its direct control, it agreed to consider proposals backed by operational capacity.
On safety and training of waterways operators, BOAN requested a joint certified training program for its operators, which NIWA agreed to in principle. NIWA also raised concerns about barges moving without tide readings, posing a risk of bridge impact, and urged BOAN to sensitize its members on professional safety standards.
Hon Olumekun also sought NIWA’s assistance in accessing funding, including the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF). Responding, the NIWA Area Manager, Eng Sarat Braimah confirmed that BOAN is eligible for consideration and inclusiveness. Both organizations agreed to explore the establishment of a joint regulatory committee or taskforce to address operational issues.
As part of the renewed partnership, several action points were agreed upon, including BOAN submitting its operational capacity data to NIWA, the establishment of a joint training program, and increased information sharing.
