NIWA may uplift jetties to boost cargo traffic between Nigeria and Ghana – Girei

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) says it may operationalise some of its existing jetties to boost cargo traffic between Nigeria and Ghana as a pilot phase of facilitating the development of a West Coast cargo jetty.

West Coast cargo jetty is aimed at enhancing seamless movement of goods and services across the sub-region.

The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Yusuf Girei, reiterated the NIWA’s readiness to support the proposed West Coast cargo jetty. He highlighted the availability of extensive waterfront infrastructure capable of driving efficient, technology-driven, and hassle-free cargo operations with direct access to key markets within Lagos.

Yusuf Girei made this known during a joint inspection of the Marina Jetty in Lagos on Thursday by officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), NIWA, and a delegation from Ghana comprising corporate and private sector trade representatives.

Girei explained that the Authority’s expansive network of waterways positions it as a critical enabler of inland cargo movement across West Africa.

He noted that NIWA’s existing operational experience, particularly along the Calabar–Cameroon route, provides a solid foundation for scaling similar initiatives across the West Coast corridor.

“We are committed to leveraging our infrastructure and expertise to facilitate regional trade. Our experience on the Calabar–Cameroon route demonstrates the viability of inland water transport in boosting market access within Nigeria and across West Africa,” Girei said.

Girei was accompanied by NIWA’s General Manager (Marine), Engr. Horsefall Dakio, and the Lagos Area Manager, Engr. Sarat Braimah.