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NIWA Clarifies Position on Sand-Filling Approvals Amidst Lagos State Concerns
By Prince Benson Davies
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has responded to the Lagos State Government’s call to halt sand-filling approvals on waterways, clarifying that it does not issue sand-filling licenses as widely perceived.
Lagos State Governor’s deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, had urged NIWA to stop granting approvals for sand-filling operations on inland waterways, citing detrimental effects on the environment and risks to the ferry transportation network.
NIWA’s Managing Director, Dr. Bola Oyebamiji, explained that the agency grants controlled access to waterways, following strict evaluation criteria, and issues provisional permits based on professional assessments.
Oyebamiji emphasized that NIWA requires documentation, including letters of allocation from relevant authorities, and conducts thorough site evaluations to ensure that sand-filling activities do not obstruct water flow or compromise safety.
The NIWA MD stressed that the agency’s processes involve inter-agency consultations and environmental considerations, aiming to protect the waterways’ natural ecosystems and ensure the success of water transportation in Lagos.
The future of our inland water transport is at stake if we allow unchecked sand filling,” Dr. Obafemi Hamzat warned. “Safety encompasses not just vessels and passengers, but also the integrity of the waterways themselves.”
This statement highlights the ongoing tension between Lagos State and NIWA over inland waterway management. While both parties aim to develop efficient and safe water transportation, the dispute over sand-filling activities reveals the need for clearer regulations and inter-governmental cooperation.
As Lagos expands its ferry services to ease road congestion, industry stakeholders emphasize the importance of stronger coordination between NIWA and the Lagos State Government. This collaboration is crucial to strike a balance between commercial interests, environmental sustainability, and public safety, ensuring the long-term viability of Lagos’ water transportation system.
