NIGERIA MUST ADEQUATELY UTILIZE THE FULL POTENTIAL OF ITS WATER RESOURCES - SAMBO

The Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo said Nigeria must adequately utilize the full potential of its water resources to achieve economic development.

He spoke during a visit to the Port Harcourt office of the National Inland Waterways Authority.

Last year, the National Inland Waterways Authority added more than 20 river craft including patrol boats, tug boats, houseboats, and water ambulances to its fleet.

The Minister’s visit this time to inspect some newly acquired boats, the authority says shows its commitment to improving safety and security along the waterways.

For NIWA this will remain a priority knowing that more than 50 percent of states are accessible by water but while some other countries rely on their maritime sector for trade as well as human and cargo transportation, in Nigeria, the story is different.

The Minister of Transportation offers fresh hope for the growth of Nigerian Maritime businesses with promises of access to funding for indigenous companies.

He further explained Government’s position on the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund. As the Federal Government works towards creating alternative means of transportation, NIWA assures that they have what it takes to support those efforts.