OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE, H.E ALHAJI USMAN AHMED ODODO

OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE, H.E ALHAJI USMAN AHMED ODODO

Dear Excellency Sir,

 Unlocking Kogi State's Economic Potential Through Inland Waterways Transportation_ 

I commend your visionary leadership and commitment to transforming Kogi State's economic, infrastructural, and social landscape. Your dedication to elevating the well-being of our people is truly appreciated.

As we strive for sustainable development and economic growth, I propose harnessing the vast potential of our inland waterways to revolutionize transportation, trade, and commerce in Kogi State. 

My Excellency Sir, our strategic location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers presents an unparalleled opportunity to develop an efficient, sustainable, and economically viable inland waterway transportation system.

 Benefits of Inland Waterways Transportation:

- Enhancing connectivity among nine (9) Local Government Areas along the Niger and Benue rivers, reducing road congestion and promoting efficient transportation.

- Boosting trade and economic activities, by reducing transport costs, opening of new markets, and facilitating intra-state and inter-state commerce.

- Creating thousands of jobs in ferry operations, logistics management, maintenance, and infrastructure development, empowering riverine communities.

- Generating substantial revenue for Kogi State through regulation, infrastructure development, and licensing.

 Proposed Inland Waterways Transportation Agency:

To actualize this vision, I propose establishing a dedicated agency to be responsible for:

- Regulating waterway transportation to ensure safety, reliability, and environmental compliance

- Developing infrastructures, including jetties, terminals, and docks

- Generating revenue through licensing, port fees, and commercial services

- Fostering partnerships with NIWA, private operators, and local communities

- Educating the public on the benefits and safety of inland water transportation

 Phased Implementation Strategy:

To ensure feasibility and sustainability, I recommend a phased implementation approach, commencing with core routes connecting Lokoja to key LGAs, and expanding the network as demand increases. 

A comprehensive feasibility study and environmental impact assessment will ensure economic viability and environmental sustainability.

 Conclusion

My Excellency Sir, the establishment of an inland waterways transportation agency will unlock a new era of development for Kogi State, providing a sustainable solution to transport, trade, and economic growth challenges. 

I trust that, under your leadership, this proposal will be given serious consideration and actualization, which will bring about transformative change to our state.

Thank you for your time and dedication to Kogi State's progress.

 e-signed

Captain Danlandi Afubu