Bangladesh, Nigeria Explore Bilateral Cooperation in Inland Waterway Transportation, Maritime Development
Oru Leonard
The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, H.E. Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, has met with the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mallam Umar Yusuf Girei, to explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Nigeria in inland waterway transportation and maritime development.
The meeting, held on November 12, 2026, at NIWA’s office meeting room, brought together senior officials of the Authority and focused on strengthening collaboration between both countries in the development of inland waterways and related maritime sectors.
Discussions centred on potential areas of cooperation, including inland waterway transportation, maritime development, technical collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge, expertise and best practices.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for both sides to explore how Bangladesh’s experience and expertise in inland waterway transportation could support Nigeria’s efforts to maximise the economic potential of its extensive network of rivers and waterways.
Bangladesh, with its established inland water transportation system, offers valuable experience in waterway management, navigation, infrastructure development and the use of waterways for commercial transportation.
For Nigeria, stronger cooperation in these areas could open new opportunities for improving water transportation, facilitating trade, reducing pressure on road infrastructure and promoting economic activities along inland waterways.
The meeting underscores the commitment of Bangladesh and Nigeria to expanding bilateral relations beyond traditional diplomatic engagements towards practical partnerships that promote technical cooperation, institutional development and mutually beneficial economic opportunities.
The engagement between the Bangladesh High Commission and NIWA is expected to provide a platform for further discussions on areas of common interest and possible collaborative initiatives in the inland water transportation and maritime sectors.
