The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the National Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have pledged to collaborate closely in order to improve maritime safety and reduce the frequency of boat and watercraft accidents.
During a courtesy visit by Dr. George Moghalu, the Managing Director and CEO of NIWA, to Prof. Mansur Matazu, the Director General and CEO of NiMet, they signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that allows for cooperation and information sharing to fulfill their respective responsibilities in ensuring safe maritime and waterways navigation.
Moghalu expressed concern over the rising number of boat accidents and emphasized the importance of weather information from NiMet to advise boat operators on safe navigation times. He also mentioned the need for adherence to safety measures such as using life jackets and avoiding operating vessels after 6 pm without night navigational aids.
On his part, Prof. Matazu emphasized the significance of the partnership to monitor waterway activities and prevent loss of lives and livelihoods. He highlighted the establishment of marine weather stations and a central marine forecast office in Lagos under this collaboration.
Both agencies recognized the value of real-time monitoring to handle issues like flooding, dredging channels, and managing waterways efficiently for the benefit of Nigerians.
