A blue economy expert and Co-convener of the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit, Uche Igwe, has called on state governments to prioritise investments in modern vessels and ferry services to improve inland water transportation and reduce travel and logistics costs in riverine communities.

Igwe made the appeal following a visit to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Abuja on Wednesday, where he and his team met with the Minister’s Technical Adviser, Prof. Busayo Fakinlede.

The discussions focused on opportunities for developing Nigeria’s inland waterways.

He observed that while several state governments were investing in air transportation through the establishment of state-owned airlines, similar attention should be given to water transport, particularly in communities where waterways remain the major means of movement.

The expert noted that Nigeria has approximately 10,000 kilometres of navigable inland waterways spanning 28 states, describing the network as an underutilised resource with significant economic potential.

He advocated replacing traditional wooden commercial boats with safer and more durable fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium vessels, alongside the expansion of ferry services across waterways.

According to him, such investments would facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, solid minerals and passengers, while lowering transportation and distribution expenses.

Igwe also raised concerns about frequent boat accidents across the country, linking some of the incidents to the continued use of poorly equipped wooden boats and inadequate safety measures.

He cited the possibility of strengthening commercial activities between states through improved water connections, particularly between riverine communities such as Agenebode in Edo State and Idah in Kogi State.

The summit co-convener further stressed the urgency of developing water transportation infrastructure in Niger Delta communities that are accessible primarily by boat, noting that improved connectivity was particularly important as political activities and campaigns gathered momentum.

Also speaking during the visit, Philemon Oghenedoro Adjekuko, a member of Igwe’s delegation, said developing inland waterways would help ease pressure on roads while opening up employment opportunities in boat manufacturing and marine tourism.

Adjekuko called on the Federal Government to support the initiative through sustained investment in dredging and the improvement of inland navigation channels to make waterways safer and more accessible for commercial transportation.