Ambode sees better development of waterways as Court returns control from NIWA
The coast is now clear for the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode to unleash massive redevelopment of inland waterways in the state following the judgment of Appeal Court in Lagos which set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court empowering the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to regulate transportation and sand dredging in the State.
In his reaction, excited Ambode said apart from enabling the state to effectively redesign the state for flood abatement, the justice done to the state waterways control will encourage government to step up investment in water transportation to free the already congested roads.
Business Hilights recalls that the Appellate Court had, on July 18, 2017, allowed the Appeal of the State Government and set aside the judgment of the lower court.
Continuing, Ambode observed that the era of uncontrolled dredging is now over in the State as the State Government would now take firm control over its inland waterways and the adjoining lands including all sand dredging activities.
He said “I am delighted to inform you that the State Government has recorded a major success in its quest to control its resources and enshrine the true spirit of Fiscal Federalism”.
“Last week on 18th July 2017, the Court of Appeal Lagos Division allowed the appeal of the Lagos State Government and set aside the Federal High Court judgment which gave the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority to regulate transportation and sand dredging.
“The era of uncontrolled dredging is over and this serves as a clear warning that the Lagos State Government will now take firm control over its inland waterways and the adjoining lands including all sand dredging activities. This will further aid our efforts in abating flood in the State,” Ambode noted.
