Operators in Nigeria’s riverine sand mining sector have urged the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to provide clearer guidance on regulatory oversight along the River Niger, citing concerns over overlapping federal and state controls.
Nigeria’s inland waterways are vital for construction, commerce, and livelihoods, particularly in riverine states such as Anambra.
In recent weeks, sand miners along the River Niger raised concerns that unclear coordination between federal and state authorities is affecting ease of doing business and disrupting economic activities.
In Onitsha, a major commercial hub, members of sand miners’ and tipper drivers’ associations staged a peaceful protest at NIWA’s Area Office on Friday.
The demonstration, involving an estimated 150 to 200 participants, aimed to formally seek regulatory clarity and institutional guidance regarding their operations.
The protesters carried placards and documents, stating they operate under licences issued by NIWA and the Federal Ministry of Mines.
They explained that the engagement with NIWA was intended to highlight operational challenges arising from overlapping regulatory expectations at different levels of government.
Speaking on behalf of the group, President of the Riverine Sand Miners Association, Christopher Mbaegbu, said: “We obtained all necessary licences and approvals after meeting federal requirements. Our intention is to understand clearly how federal and state regulations align, so that we can continue operating lawfully and productively.”
The associations said recent enforcement actions had affected trucks, heavy equipment, and work schedules, increasing operating costs and slowing sand supply to the construction sector.
They stated that improved coordination among authorities would prevent disruptions and strengthen investor confidence.
Tipper drivers, who transport sand from riverbanks to construction sites, also supported regulation and environmental standards.
Chairman of the Anambra State Tipper Drivers Association, Augustine Akigwe, said drivers contribute significantly to state revenue through approved levies and fees.
“We are committed to compliance. Clear guidelines on approved routes, fees, and regulatory oversight will help everyone operate more efficiently,”Akigwe said.
In response, NIWA’s Area Manager in Onitsha, Sir Victor Nwokocha, reaffirmed that the authority operates under federal law and is mandated to regulate activities on inland waterways.
He said NIWA was open to collaboration with state institutions to ensure smooth and lawful operations.
“Regulatory issues are best resolved through dialogue and adherence to existing legal frameworks,” Nwokocha said, adding that the matter has been reported to the agency’s headquarters for further guidance.
The Anambra State Government, through the Managing Director of Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), Celestine Anere, emphasised that the state prioritises regulation, environmental protection, and road safety.
He noted that operators using state infrastructure must comply with applicable state requirements.
“Our responsibility is to ensure orderliness and environmental standards,” Anere said, adding that the state welcomes lawful business activities conducted in line with regulations.
The operators appealed to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to support efforts to harmonise federal and state roles, describing such alignment as essential for sustaining jobs, boosting revenue, and promoting investment.
As Nigeria continues to strengthen its infrastructure and improve the business environment, the engagement in Onitsha highlights the importance of intergovernmental cooperation in managing natural resources.
For stakeholders along the River Niger, clear policies and sustained dialogue remain central to long-term stability and growth.