NIWA, LASWA end 10 years dispute on waterways

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA,) have ended a decade of dispute on control of the waterways, by signing a cooperation agreement in the areas of responsibility, to end a subsisting legal tussle.

The agreement for cooperation between NIWA (for the Federal Government), and LASWA (for Lagos State Government) was ratified on Monday, between the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Managing Director of NIWA, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora in Alausa, Lagos.

Under the terms, the duo would enjoy joint responsibility to ensure safety, monitor regulations on the waterways as well as harmonise tariffs.

Sanwo-Olu explained that aside ending the long-drawn battle, the agreement would lead to opening up of more investments in water transportation, adding that citizens of Lagos would gain more when there is a collaboration between the two agencies.

Mamora said the signing of the agreement was necessary and done in good faith, adding that it was done in the best interest of the people.

He said: “We don’t need the court to intervene in ensuring safety on waterways and protecting the rights of our people and avoiding multiple taxes, which discourage investors. These are the areas we are partnering on. This agreement shows that we care for our people, particularly the users of the waterways.

“This agreement means a better life for our people. What we have signed today will promote a better working relationship and collaboration for the good of our people. Our desire is to see the possibility of settling out of court because this disagreement has been on for over 10 years,” he said.