By joshua 
APPOINTMENT APPRAISAL: WHY DR. OLORUNFEMI AJISAFE IS THE MOST QUALIFIED AND DESERVING PERSONALITY FOR THE POSITION OF MANAGING DIRECTOR, NATIONAL INLAND WATERWAYS AUTHORITY (NIWA)
PREPARED FOR: PRESIDENT AHMED BOLA TINUBU, LEADERS OF THE OKUN NATION, TRADITIONAL RULERS, SENATORS AND HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY AND MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
BY: A CONCERNED ADVOCATE FOR OKUN UNITY & NATIONAL PROGRESS.
In a defining moment for Nigeria’s infrastructural transformation and maritime revitalization, the candidature of Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe stands as an unshakable testament to the power of merit, competence, and proven leadership.
His emergence as the most qualified personality for the role of Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is not an accident but a meritorious rise built on decades of unparalleled service, technical expertise, and administrative mastery.
A teacher, farmer, public officer, environmental economist and practitioner. He’s also a card-carrying political actor of APC and community leader – High Chief Alaa of Ayegunle-Gbede and Oluomo of Ekinrin Adde.
Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe’s professional journey spans more than three decades across public administration, environmental economics, waterways management, and national development.
He had over the years demonstrated quality leadership in the water transport sector of the Nigerian Blue Economy as Area Manager and then General Manager. He provided leadership leading to the concessioning of the Onitsha River Port. A thoroughbred water transport professional – with national and international training and exposure.
His contributions within NIWA alone reflect a legacy of excellence having served as General Manager (Research, Planning & Environmental Department), Deputy General Manager, and Head of several strategic divisions responsible for planning, project appraisal, marine safety, environmental compliance, and multi-billion-naira national waterways development initiatives.
A champion of sustainable infrastructure, he coordinated Environmental Impact Assessments for major national projects, supervised dredging operations across the Lower Niger River, strengthened safety and compliance frameworks, and provided leadership that shaped the modern identity of NIWA.
His expertise in resource management, PPP negotiations, maritime policy development, and environmental stewardship sets him apart as a national asset.
Beyond NIWA, Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe, since voluntarily retirement from public service, has emersed himself into active private sector operations and management as farmer, trainer, commentator, and business leader. He is the current President of the Kogi Chamber of Commerce, Mines, Industry and Agriculture (KOCCIMA) and doubles as the National Vice President (North Central) of NACCIMA – the national body.
His leadership in KOCCIMA has further demonstrated his ability to stimulate economic growth, attract investment, and shape developmental policies in Kogi State and the North-Central region. His voice carries influence; his vision inspires transformation; his competence drives impact.
Major Functions of NIWA:
– Inland waterways development and management
– Maritime safety and security
– Environmental conservation and management
– Economic development through water transport infrastructure
– Regulation of navigation and shipping activities
– Promotion of tourism and water recreation
Why Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe is the Right Choice:
– Extensive experience in NIWA’s core functions, with a proven track record of delivering results
– Strategic vision for Nigeria’s blue economy, with a focus on sustainable development
– Proven leadership and management skills, with a strong commitment to excellence
– Expertise in resource management, PPP negotiations, and maritime policy development
– Strong advocate for environmental stewardship and community engagement
If appointed, Dr. Ajisafe will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to NIWA, driving innovation, safety, and global-standard waterways development. He will:
– Leverage his expertise in environmental economics to promote sustainable waterways management
– Build on his experience in PPP negotiations to attract investment and drive infrastructure development
– Utilize his leadership skills to strengthen NIWA’s safety and compliance frameworks
– Foster partnerships with stakeholders to promote economic growth and development
For the Okun nation, this is more than an appointment – it is a collective call to destiny. Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe embodies integrity, experience, and the inevitability of merit. He represents a convergence of knowledge, loyalty, and national relevance. He is a son of the soil whose excellence reflects the pride, dignity, and intellectual strength of the Okun people.
Therefore, we call upon all Okun Senators, Honourable National Assembly Members, Esteemed Traditional Rulers, and Respected Political Actors to unite behind this uncommon son.
Nigeria needs him. NIWA deserves him. Okun nation must proudly present him. Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe is not just qualified; he is exceptional. Not just capable; he is irreplaceable. Not just ready; he is destined to lead NIWA into an era of innovation, safety, and global-standard waterways development.
Behold, we humbly present to you, Dr. Olorunfemi Ajisafe.