Tides of change: Oyebamiji receives ‘Most Friendly Maritime CEO’ Award

 …Reveals how ₦14.6bn boat procurement set to transform inland waterways

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Former National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Managing Director, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, has been honored with the “Most Friendly Maritime CEO” award in  recognition of his people-centered leadership and commitment to transparency and accountability during his tenure at NIWA.

Oyebamiji popularly called AMBO  received the honor letter through the chairman of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists, Mr Frank Meke at a courtesy visit in Osun State,

Asiwaju Oyebamiji

The former NIWA boss during the visit disclosed that the federal government approval of ₦14.6 billion for modern boats and ferries was to boost safety and trade on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The Osun State All Progressives Congress(APC) candidate in the Osun off season election stated that new vessels will target riverine states like Niger, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, and Kebbi, enhancing transportation links for local communities and commerce.

Oyebamiji emphasized that the initiative will reduce reliance on unsafe craft, improve food supply chains, and boost economic activity.

AMBO went on to  stress that safety reforms must combine infrastructure, training, and discipline. He said, “Safety is not only about vessels, it’s also about behaviour. ”

He went on to cite instances of operators under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

As AMBO sacrifices his CEO position to run for the Governorship of Osun State, it’s on record that his tenure at NIWA was marked by a focus on staff welfare, stakeholder engagement, and transparency.

“I believe in engaging the media, listening to criticism, and improving. Just as ever, I support from the maritime media as we aspire to transform Osun state.

Meke the coalition chairman praised Oyebamiji’s accessibility and support for journalists, saying his openness strengthened maritime reporting and projected reforms in the inland waterways sector.

The ₦14.6 billion boat procurement initiative is a game-changer for Nigeria’s inland waterways. With better vessels, supervision, and sensitization, the country can change its safety culture and unlock economic potential.

With the helm of Osun State in his sights, AMBO charts a course for governance infused with the same transparency, accountability, and people-centric ethos that steered NIWA’s ship to calmer waters. “My political ambition is anchored in transparency, accountability, and people-focused leadership,” he declared, leaving no doubt about his guiding stars.

The maritime community’s seal of approval – embodied in the “Most Friendly Maritime CEO” award – is a beacon of confidence in Oyebamiji’s leadership.

As Nigeria’s waterways ride the waves of change, AMBO’s vision for a safer, more efficient maritime sector is poised to create ripples that will be felt far beyond the shores of Osun State.