By Boluwaji Obahopo

Lokoja — National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA,  has signed a N1,600,344.513 contract with Messrs Liebherr Nigeria Limited, for the supply and installation of 64 tonnes mobile harbour crane for Lokoja-Jamata River Port complex.

Signing the contract at NIWA headquarters in Lokoja, yesterday, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the board, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, said the contract signals the beginning of the revamping of waterways transportation.

Mamora disclosed that the project was one of the four river ports under construction that is at the heart of the Federal Government.

C’River APC: Judges withdraw from case over N250m bribery allegation

He said: “The essence of building these ports is to enhance inland waterways transportation across the country and boost employment opportunities for our teeming youths.”

He also said the agency was set to curb water mishap that had suddenly become a recurring decimal in the country of recent.

He attributed non compliance with NIWA code, over-loading, over-speeding, substance abuse by operators and unworthy vessels as some of the reasons for the upsurge in water mishap.

He, however, said the agency had commenced steps towards curbing the occurrences, stressing that the agency was, however, hampered by challenges of funding and personnel.