“We need to collaborate because we have 59 jetties, while NIWA has two.”

The Lagos State Government on Monday said it would partner with the Federal Government to promote effective water transportation in the state.

Kayode Opeifa, the state Commissioner for Transportation, said this at a meeting of maritime stakeholders in Lagos.

Mr. Opeifa said that there should not be any rift between the Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) on the issue of water transportation.

The commissioner said that the state was ready to forge cordial working relationship with NIWA in the interest of the citizens.

Mr. Opeifa was represented by Dr Taiwo Salaam, a director in the ministry,

“We need to collaborate because we have 59 jetties, while NIWA has two.

“You can see the reason why we should not be at loggerheads with each other.

“If the water transportation and railway systems work efficiently, the movement of goods at the ports will be done faster.

“Cooperation of the state and NIWA, which is an agency of the Federal Government, will open up the waterways for viable commercial activities,’’ Mr. Opeifa said.

According to him, the cooperation of the two agencies will also ensure safety of lives and property.

(NAN)