The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has described the immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, as a consummate public servant whose tenure repositioned the Authority within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
Oyetola made the remarks in Abuja during the award presentation to Oyebamiji as the “Most Media Friendly Maritime CEO,” organized by the Coalition of Maritime Journalists. He highlighted key safety, revenue, and regulatory reforms achieved under Oyebamiji’s leadership.
“You are a consummate public servant whose tenure repositioned NIWA within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy through innovation, institutional strengthening, and stakeholder engagement,” the Minister said.
Oyetola also commended the organisers for promoting accountability and professionalism in the maritime sector, noting that specialised maritime journalism is vital in shaping public understanding, strengthening governance, and encouraging stakeholder participation.
He cited significant revenue growth, improved operational efficiency, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and stronger regulatory oversight as hallmarks of Oyebamiji’s leadership, which collectively strengthened NIWA’s financial sustainability and service delivery.
“One of the most enduring legacies of Oyebamiji’s tenure was the Inland Waterways Safety Code, a landmark achievement that modernised regulation and improved safety across the nation’s waterways,” Oyetola added.
The acting Managing Director of NIWA, Umar Girei, praised Oyebamiji for transforming the Authority’s work culture and aligning its programmes with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. He noted that Oyebamiji’s initiatives positively impacted human lives, stabilized businesses, and supported families across Nigeria.
The convener of the award, Frank Meke, explained that the accolade celebrates maritime leaders who value transparency, media partnership, and information-sharing in building sustainable institutions. He emphasised that Oyebamiji’s accessibility and encouragement of first-hand reporting distinguished him as a deserving recipient.
In his acceptance speech, Oyebamiji credited the award to collective efforts during his tenure and paid tribute to Oyetola for mentorship and support. He also acknowledged journalists for their work in raising safety awareness and public understanding of inland waterway operations.
The ceremony attracted top government officials, maritime stakeholders, and industry players, celebrating Oyebamiji’s legacy of leadership and collaborative engagement with the media in advancing Nigeria’s marine and blue economy agenda.
