The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has been honoured with the Maritime Agency of the Year 2025 Award in recognition of its outstanding achievement in reducing boat mishaps by 70%.

The award was presented at the 2025 Award/Dinner Night organized by New Telegraph Newspaper, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was received by the Acting Managing Director/CEO, Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, who dedicated the award to the hardworking staff of the Authority and the former Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB.

Addressing the media, the Acting Managing Director expressed his gratitude, stating that the award is a testament to the Authority’s dedication and commitment to improving maritime safety in Nigeria. He noted that the recognition would further motivate staff to sustain and improve upon their performance.

The award acknowledges NIWA’s efforts in promoting safety and security on Nigerian inland waterways, including the implementation of the Inland Waterways Transportation Code and the deployment of Water Marshals to enforce safety regulations, among other achievements recorded in 2025.

Management staff who accompanied the Acting Managing Director included Engr. Mohammad Dangana (General Manager, Special Duties), Suleiman Makama (Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs), Dr. Wale Tijani (Technical Adviser to the MD), and Engr. Sarat Braimah (Lagos Area Office Manager).