‘Water transportation is grossly underutilised’
Yomi Sonuga
TO successfully tackle the chaotic traffic challenges in some parts of the country especially Lagos state, foremost automobile dealer and chairman Bras Marine & Yacht Services, Yomi Sonuga has advised Nigerians to take advantage of the nation’s waterways.
The crucial role of water transportation in the development of Nigeria’s economy according to Sonuga has not been thoroughly harnessed.
He explained that if adequately harnessed and enough Boats deployed, water transportation is capable of meeting the needs of numerous Nigerians. Speaking in Lagos at the weekend, Sonuga said: “The awareness is growing.
People should take advantage of waterways. It saves time. A friend of mine who use to drive about two to three hours from Lekki to Victorial Island everyday now spend about 25 minutes using boat. He can now take his breakfast and get to work on time.
People should consider this option. The advantages are numerous”. Bras Marine & Yacht Services Limited is a subsidiary of Brass Venture Limited, which also encompasses Brass Motors Limited. Sonuga explained that the company is in partnership with Sea Ray to provide quality boats to meet Nigeria’s climate conditions.
He said: “We want to encourage individuals, corporate bodies and government agencies to take advantage the option. You can collaborate with your friends and associates to acquire any boat of your choice.
There are various specifications. Specifications differ. It depends on your needs.” He said the company is working closely with government agencies such as National Inland Waterways (NIWA). According to Sonuga, arrangements are in place to provide first class after sales back up for clients coupled with availability of spare parts.
Sonuga also used the opportunity to disclose that some staff are presently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates undergoing training sessions, pointing out that Sea Ray has been a good and reliable partner.
He said: “We want to encourage Nigerians to own and use new Boats. We partner with Banks on leasing arrangement for our clients and potential clients”.
Sonuga said Customers are entitled to two years warranty including other incentives put in place by Bras Marine & Yacht Services in collaboration with Sea Ray.
Apart from Nigeria, Sea Ray operates in different parts of the world including South Africa, Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, Angola, Algeria, Tunisia, among others.
Sea Ray is regarded as the world’s largest manufacturer of superior quality pleasure boats, producing more than 40 models ranging from 18 to 60 feet. According to the company, its products are designed, crafted and built to draw out “those precious experiences others let slip away.
To help navigate the uncharted waters of an elevated lifestyle, Sea Ray has crafted a compass personalized to your on-water adventures”.
Related
Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox every day of the week. Stay informed with the Guardian’s leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology and sports.
1 Comments
he is quite right, we don’t use our water ways properly. there should be renewed effort into moving larger cargo from lagos port on barges to smaller inland water port. from there trucks or rail would move them further inland. it would help with the congestion at lagos port and move goods much faster. it would also provide economy benefit to smaller port in other states.
We will review and take appropriate action.