The historic town of Badagry will have a new multimillion naira jetty constructed to ease water transportation in the area as the the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), in conjunction with Simtop Ventures carried out a two-day training to acquaint ferry operators with modern skills on safe operation of small crafts for ferry and services on the inland waterways in Badagry.
Managing Director of NIWA, Dr George Moghalu told the Akram of Badargy, HRH De Wheno Aholu Menu Tovi 1 that the water transportation regulatory agency poised to improve the inland waterways across the country in order to tap its economic benefits.
The NIWA boss said “I thank you for the support you have given to our partners in developing the waterways in Lagos State and Nigeria. Let us all do more to develop our waterways in order to take the pressure away from the road.
“We are also very much concerned with safety and have taken measures to make sure that all our captains are qualified, well trained and licensed. No one will also be allowed onboard without wearing a life jacket.
According to him “The only way to decongest our roads and seaports is through the waterways, and I hope that the trainees put the training to good use, in ensuring that no life is lost on the waterways again.
Also, this programme will not be a one-time event, it will be continuous.”
The Oba, who spoke through the Bale of Topo Community, Chief Abose commended the effort of NIWA in organising the workshop and its role in making inland waterways a safe means of transportation in Lagos.
