The Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON) has intensified efforts to strengthen security on Nigeria’s coastal waterways through renewed collaboration with Police authorities in Lagos and Ogun states.
This move was highlighted during a visit by executives of ATBOWATON to the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Lagos and Ogun states, AIG Olohundare Jimoh.
Both parties discussed strategies to combat kidnapping, sea piracy, and other criminal activities along the waterways.
Speaking during the meeting, Jimoh commended the association for its proactive role in supporting security operations and expressed his willingness to work closely with stakeholders in the maritime transport sector.
He stated that he would appreciate the Association’s continued support in strengthening the management of security operations along the waterways, noting that collaboration between the police and industry operators remains critical to addressing crime along coastal routes.
According to him, sustained synergy between the police and boat operators will significantly reduce criminal activities and improve public confidence in water transportation across the region.
Earlier, the National President of ATBOWATON, Dr Ganiyu Shekoni Balogun, popularly known as ‘De Boatman Tarzan’, said the visit was aimed at strengthening cooperation with security agencies to consolidate the gains already recorded in reducing criminal incidents on the waterways.
Balogun, who is also the Managing Director of Tarzan Jetties and Maritime Enterprises, noted that criminal activities such as kidnapping and sea piracy were previously widespread; however, they have significantly reduced due to improved security interventions.
He explained that past incidents, including kidnappings involving passengers and expatriates, discouraged many people from using water transport, thereby affecting business operations and investors’ confidence.
“This visit will create a very positive impact for our organisation. In the past, there were many criminal activities on the waterways, especially kidnapping and sea piracy, but the situation has improved significantly. With stronger support and equipment for Marine Police, we believe these crimes can be reduced further, if not completely eradicated,” he said.
Balogun also assured the Police of the Association’s readiness to support security operations whenever necessary, particularly by providing boats and logistics support when required for patrols, rescue operations, and emergency responses.
“Our operations cover major waterways across coastal communities, and whenever the police need support, especially boats for operations, we are always ready to assist within our capacity,” he added.
He further revealed that members of the association have been sensitised to adopt the “See Something, Say Something” approach by promptly reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
Representatives from state chapters of the association also spoke during the meeting, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between operators and security agencies.
