Inland Waterways Chief Assumes Duty, Advocates Safety

The newly appointed managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Munirudeen Oyebamiji, has said, for the nation to achieve its full economic potential, all sectors, including the inland waterways, must ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

In his inaugural address during takeover at the agency’s headquarters in Lokoja, Oyebamiji said, the agency cannot afford to fail the country.

He, however, pleaded for workers’ cooperation, dedication and doggedness to achieve the task of providing safe and secured inland Waterways for Nigerians.

“We just must begin to do things differently if we hope to achieve different results. I, therefore, bring to you a campaign of renewed hope that things can be better and that things, indeed, will get better with our combined efforts. As an agency, our mission is clear, and our objectives are achievable. For Nigeria to attain her full economic potential, all sectors, including the inland waterways, must be primed to support efficient and effective service delivery.

“I, therefore, plead for your cooperation, dedication, and doggedness as we approach the tasks before us. Like Mr. President said days ago, let us delete every line of division in our daily activities. It is time for all hands to be on deck. We cannot afford to fail, and we will not fail.”

Oyebamiji stated that his administration would unveil his programmes and activities for the inland waterways in no distant time.

“In the coming days, we shall unveil our programmes and activities, in line with Mr. President’s charge and the mandate of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. I am an advocate of an ‘open door’ policy where everyone matters. As the captain of this ship, I shall always make myself available to everyone. I look forward to receiving your suggestions, criticisms, and commendations (when we deserve them),” he stated.