Danubius Working Papers, Vol 1, No 1 (2019)

Abstract

Inland waterways are made up of navigable rivers, lakes, creeks, lagoonsand canals. The movement of goods and services along inland waterways is one ofthe oldest means of transporting goods and services from one point to another. Thiswas largely since inland water transportation offers the most economical, energyefficient and environmentally friendly means of transporting all types of cargoesfrom place to place. It also offered safe and cheaper transportation in areas withwatercourses. Obviously, the economic development of most developing nations ofAfrica, including Nigeria, should reflect in the development, organization,coordination and management of this sea-borne trade, which is critical and cardinalto the development of international trade with other nations of the world. This isbecause, maritime-transport services duly serve as the propelling anchor andevolving force for the survival, hence, the formulation of execution of policies thatdisrupt the efficient running of this vital sub-economic system globally, will affectthe efficiency and well-being of the enlarged society as well as the people. Nigeriais a major international trading nation in Africa, exporting large quantities ofhydrocarbons to earn substantial revenue which accrue from crude oil export and areused mainly to fund huge trade in imports.