Inland waterways are vital catalysts for economic growth, acting as natural highways that can transform a nation’s logistics and industrial landscape. Despite currently contributing less than 2% to Nigeria’s GDP, the sector’s potential is significant for national development. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria’s inland waterways are prioritised as a core pillar of the Marine and Blue Economy to drive economic diversification beyond oil (Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, 2025). The agenda focuses on transforming these waterways into safe, efficient, and commercially viable transport corridors.

This policy brief outlines the challenges, constraints, and opportunities to be addressed for
unleashing the economic growth potential of the sector.