ODSG COMPLEMENTS FG, NIGERIAN INLAND WATERWAYS TO BOOST MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY

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ODSG COMPLEMENTS FG, NIGERIAN INLAND WATERWAYS TO BOOST MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY

…Launches Operation Safe Water Ways and Waterway Insurance Scheme

…Creates over 500 jobs through revenue collection

The Ondo State Government has intensified efforts to enhance waterway safety, security, and sustainability following years of boat mishaps and insecurity in the state’s waterways. Hon. Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Executive Governor, through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore, and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Inland Waterways Security, Engr. Alore Omosuyi, has officially launched the Operation Safe Ondo Waters and Waterways Insurance Scheme.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to promote safety, security, and sustainable economic development along Ondo State’s waterways. It comes at a crucial time to enhance the safety of residents, fishermen, travelers, and businesses operating in and around the state’s vital water bodies.

As part of this initiative, the Ondo State Government has procured 1,500 life jackets for transporters and commuters using the state’s waterways. This action underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals who rely on inland waterways for transportation. The life jackets will be distributed to commercial transporters and commuters to significantly reduce the risk of water-related accidents and promote safer travel along the state’s rivers and lakes.

Additionally, the Waterways Insurance Scheme is designed to provide affordable and accessible coverage for individuals and businesses engaged in maritime activities, particularly in sectors that depend on the protection and security of the state’s inland waterways. By offering tailored insurance solutions, the scheme will address risks such as accidents, theft, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events that could negatively impact operations along the state’s waterways.

This initiative further demonstrates the governor’s resolve to expand and position Ondo State for greater development. The global blue economy, encompassing marine activities, is estimated to be worth at least $24 trillion in key ocean assets and generates an annual value of goods and services around $2.5 trillion, which accounts for about 5% of the global GDP.

Ondo State boasts a 180-kilometer coastline, the longest in Nigeria. This coastline presents opportunities for sea trade, port construction, and fishing. Combined with its vast green vegetation, Ondo State holds the potential to become one of the richest states in the world.

In his remarks, the Ondo State Governor, ably represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore, commended the collaborative effort of the state government. He emphasized that the launch of this scheme aligns with his administration’s broader vision of developing a safe, secure, and economically prosperous Ondo State. He assured the public that the government remains committed to continually improving security measures, particularly in the critical area of waterways.

At the event, Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore reaffirmed the government’s dedication to youth empowerment and job creation, highlighting this initiative as a significant step toward developing the state’s waterway security infrastructure while ensuring safety and economic growth.

Similarly, Engr. Alore Omosuyi stressed the importance of this initiative in strengthening the state’s capacity to effectively monitor and protect its inland waterways from criminal activities, oil theft, and other security threats. He further emphasized the insurance scheme’s role in providing a sense of security for individuals and businesses relying on the waterways for their livelihoods.

The Ondo State Government urges all relevant stakeholders, including youth, local businesses, and residents, to take advantage of this scheme to ensure their safety and the continued success of their activities on the state’s waterways.

The Nigerian Navy, represented by the Commanding Officer in charge of the waterways, expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to ensure safety and security. He assured the public of the Navy’s unwavering commitment to maintaining security along the waterways.

Additional Key Components of the Initiative include;
Life Insurance Policy which means providing security for individuals and businesses involved in waterway activities. Also, professional Safety Management; implementing structured safety measures to reduce risks. Collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is also very key. It means ensuring the full implementation of waterway security and marine economic initiatives.

The Office of the SSA Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, alongside the State Ministry of Transportation, is working closely with the federal ministry to ensure the full execution of these initiatives.

Furthermore, the Ondo State Government is offering various investment opportunities in its blue economy sector, including:

Port Storage Facilities – General storage and cold rooms for preserving perishable goods.
Vessel Maintenance Yard – Facilities for mechanical repairs and maintenance of vessels.
River Transport Services – Investment in river transport, including boats, docks, and logistics support for local businesses.
Tourism Development – Leveraging the state’s waterways for tourism infrastructure such as hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
The Ondo State Government remains committed to developing its marine and blue economy, ensuring the safety and security of waterway users, and creating jobs and sustainable livelihoods for its citizens.

The official launch event was graced by several notable dignitaries, including a representative from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Igbokoda, the Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), representatives from the Waterways Union, and other distinguished guests. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in securing Ondo State’s waterways and improving safety and economic opportunities for all stakeholders involved.