Riverine Security Urges FG to Prioritize Waterways Transportation

“Nigeria cannot continue to depend almost entirely on roads for the movement of people and goods.” — Commander Bibi Oduku

The Commandant General of Riverine Security (Coast Guard of the Federation), Commander Bibi Oduku, has called on the Federal Government to urgently prioritize the development, modernization, and security of Nigeria’s waterways transportation system as a critical component of the nation’s logistics and economic strategy.

Speaking after monitoring activities in riverine communities, Commander Oduku stressed that Nigeria’s vast inland waterways remain underutilized, while overreliance on road transport continues to cause accidents, congestion, road deterioration, and delays in the movement of goods.

“We need to begin treating our waterways as strategic national infrastructure,” he said, noting that heavy-duty vehicles contribute to highway damage, traffic bottlenecks, and environmental pollution.

Commander Oduku urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIWA, NPA, NIMASA, and other agencies to develop a coordinated national waterways transportation strategy. He emphasized investment in modern jetties, terminals, navigation systems, passenger boats, cargo facilities, and safety infrastructure.

He highlighted that improved waterways transport would ease movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products, and manufactured goods, provide alternative corridors for businesses and citizens, create substantial employment opportunities, and stimulate private-sector investment.

Addressing concerns about piracy and militancy, Oduku insisted that security challenges must not deter development. He praised the Nigerian Navy and other agencies for their role in safeguarding maritime environments and called for stronger inter-agency collaboration.

He also raised concerns about poor infrastructure in riverine communities, particularly in the Niger Delta, urging government and oil companies to invest in healthcare, education, potable water, electricity, and transportation facilities.

Commander Oduku advocated for a National Waterways Transportation Master Plan that integrates inland waterways with seaports, roads, and rail networks. He stressed that waterways should complement—not compete with—other modes of transport.

“Nigeria has the waterways, the human resources, and the economic potential. What we need is the political will, investment, modern technology, proper regulation, and sustained security to unlock this potential.”

He concluded by urging the Federal Government and stakeholders to move beyond policy declarations to practical implementation, emphasizing that investing in waterways is investing in safer transportation, economic growth, national security, and the future of Nigeria.