Alliance and NIWA Boost Nigeria's Marine Tourism Economy

The Alliance and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have announced a partnership aimed at developing Nigeria's largely untapped marine tourism economy. During a visit to NIWA's Lagos office, Mr. Sarat Braimah, the authority's chairman, discussed the collaboration with Mr. Bolaji Olasad from the Alliance.

The initiative seeks to unlock the economic potential of Nigeria's waterfronts, particularly in Lagos, which has an extensive lagoon system and coastal infrastructure. Mr. Olasad emphasized the importance of integrating safe and efficient water transport with recreational hospitality to position Nigeria's waterfront as a viable tourism destination.

Mr. Dorca Aderemi, the coalition's secretary, highlighted that sustainable growth in the marine blue economy will depend on strategic alignment between public agencies and private investors, advocating for a structured public-private partnership framework to attract long-term funding. The coalition also commended Braimah's leadership in enforcing safety standards and urged for the modernization of inland water transport to phase out outdated boats in favor of safer ferries.