Rising Above The Noise: Bola Oyebamiji’s Resilience Against Detractors And Continued Commitment To Development
***Stand with Progress, Stand with Oyebamiji
In recent times, media attacks on Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director/CEO of Nigeria’s National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), have been on the rise. These attacks have been orchestrated by individuals who feel threatened by Oyebamiji’s governorship ambition and are not well-informed about his achievements within his 2-year tenure at NIWA. These attacks have been described as not only baseless but also detrimental to the development and progress that Oyebamiji has brought to the agency.
Since assuming the role of MD/CEO in October 2023, Oyebamiji has overseen transformative impacts and developments at NIWA. One of the key areas of focus has been infrastructure and safety boosts, with the commissioning of 15 new boats, plans to dredge 2,000km of waterways, and the launch of the Waterways Transportation Code in 2023. These initiatives have aimed to standardize operations, minimize accidents, and attract investors to the water transportation sector.
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In addition to infrastructure improvements, Oyebamiji has implemented institutional reforms and efficiency measures at NIWA. These include the introduction of a Performance Management System, staff welfare and capacity building initiatives, and anti-corruption measures to enhance revenue generation and staff accountability. These reforms have been lauded by unions and have led to an increase in revenue by 90% under Oyebamiji’s leadership.
Furthermore, Oyebamiji has focused on fostering economic growth and attracting investment through partnerships with the private sector and the promotion of Nigeria’s blue economy. These efforts have positioned NIWA as a key player in the marine economy, unlocking job opportunities and driving economic growth in the sector.
Despite these achievements, Oyebamiji has faced criticisms, with allegations of neglecting the headquarters in Lokoja and running NIWA from Abuja. However, these allegations have not been substantiated, and Oyebamiji’s supporters maintain that he is focused on transforming NIWA and driving development in the water transportation sector.
The media attacks on Bola Oyebamiji are unfounded and driven by individuals who are threatened by his progressive leadership and governorship ambition. Oyebamiji’s tenure at NIWA has been marked by significant achievements in infrastructure development, institutional reforms, and economic growth. Those who continue to disparage his reputation are enemies of development and are not well-informed about the positive impacts he has made at NIWA. As Oyebamiji continues to lead the agency towards greater success, it is imperative that his detractors recognize and support his efforts for the benefit of all Nigerians.
