The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, on Wednesday 2nd July 2025, formally inaugurated the Governing Boards of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), in a ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja.

In a statement signed by Dr. Bolaji Akinola Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to reposition the maritime sector for maximum national impact. He said the exercise represented not just a routine constitutional process, but a vital step in consolidating the structures that will drive the Marine and Blue Economy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking the immense potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national development.

The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s strategic maritime position along the Gulf of Guinea and an expansive 850-kilometre coastline, noting the country’s potential to benefit substantially from activities such as shipping, fisheries, marine biotechnology, offshore energy and coastal tourism. He recalled that it was in recognition of these opportunities that President Tinubu, in 2023, established the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to provide focused leadership, regulation and promotion of the country’s ocean-based economy.

Addressing the newly appointed members of the Governing Board, the Minister said the new Board comes at a time when effective institutional leadership is needed to drive infrastructure development, regulate inland water activities, promote water transport and support economic integration across regions.

He reminded the NIWA Board that their role is to provide strategic policy guidance and supervision, in accordance with the NIWA Act, while operational execution remains the responsibility of the Managing Director and the management team.

He drew attention to both the NIWA Act and relevant sections of the Public Service Rules and Public Procurement Act, which underscore the distinction between governance and management. He urged the Board to approach its duties with discipline, professionalism, and a clear understanding of institutional boundaries, adding that national interest and development must guide every decision.

He formally inaugurated the Board, which is chaired by Hon. Musa Sarki Adar. Other members include Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, who also serves as the Managing Director; Mr. Hussaini Shettima; Mr. Jeminiwa Adewale Charles; Dr. Ndidi Jenifer Ozegbe; Engr. Prof. Sadiq Z. Abubakar; Surv. Kunle Olugbemiro; Capt. Tajudeen Alao; Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye; Capt. Jerome Angwunwe; and Hon. Hoplyn Euore Ayu.

Speaking on behalf of the NIWA Board, the Chairman, Hon. Musa Sarki Adar, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust placed in them. He praised the Honourable Minister for his guidance and pledged the commitment of the Board to give their best in the service of the nation. He promised that the NIWA Board would work harmoniously with the management and operate within its mandate to ensure the Authority fulfils its role in facilitating inland waterways transportation and economic connectivity.

Concluding the ceremony, Oyetola reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for the Board and expressed confidence in the ability of the newly inaugurated members to discharge their responsibilities with honour and dedication. He reminded them that the task ahead is significant, but so too is the opportunity to effect meaningful and lasting change. He wished them a successful tenure and charged them to serve with clarity of purpose and a deep commitment to national development.