By Chinwe Onuigbo, Anambra
Operators in the riverine sand mining sector in Anambra State have called for clearer coordination between federal and state authorities to improve ease of doing business and sustain economic activities along the River Niger.
The appeal followed a peaceful protest by members of sand miners’ and tipper drivers’ associations at the Onitsha Area Office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) on Friday. The operators said the visit was aimed at seeking institutional guidance and regulatory clarity on their operations along the River Niger.
Onitsha, a major commercial hub in the South-East, relies heavily on sand supply for construction and allied industries. The protesters, estimated at between 150 and 200, carried placards and official documents, explaining that they operate under licences issued by NIWA and the Federal Ministry of Mines.
According to the operators, recent enforcement actions by regulatory agencies have resulted in the seizure of trucks and equipment, disruptions to work schedules and increased operational costs, with negative implications for the construction supply chain.
Speaking on behalf of the group, President of the Riverine Sand Miners Association, Mr. Christopher Mbaegbu, said the association recognises NIWA as the statutory authority responsible for regulating inland waterways and had approached the agency for clarification on overlapping regulatory expectations.
“We have obtained all required licences and approvals after meeting federal regulatory requirements,” Mbaegbu said. “Our objective is to clearly understand how federal and state regulations align so that we can continue operating lawfully, efficiently and without unnecessary disruptions.”
The sand miners and drivers stressed that better coordination among regulatory bodies would enhance compliance, protect investments and boost confidence in the sector.
Chairman of the Anambra State Tipper Drivers Association, Mr. Augustine Akigwe, said members of the association support regulation and environmental protection, noting that drivers already contribute to the state’s internally generated revenue through approved levies and fees.
“We are committed to compliance,” Akigwe said. “Clear guidelines on approved routes, fees and regulatory oversight will help operators work more efficiently and reduce avoidable conflicts.”
Responding, NIWA’s Area Manager in Onitsha, Sir Victor Nwokocha, reiterated that the authority operates under federal law with statutory responsibility for regulating activities on inland waterways. He said NIWA remains open to collaboration with state institutions to ensure lawful and seamless operations.
“NIWA believes that regulatory issues are best resolved through dialogue and adherence to existing legal frameworks,” Nwokocha said, adding that the matter had been escalated to the agency’s headquarters for further guidance.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), Mr. Celestine Anere, said the state government’s focus is on regulation, environmental protection and road safety. He noted that operators who utilise state infrastructure are expected to comply with applicable state regulations, particularly those aimed at preventing damage to roads and the environment.
“Our responsibility is to ensure orderliness, safety and environmental standards,” Anere said, stressing that the Anambra State Government supports lawful business activities conducted in line with existing regulations.
The operators appealed to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to support efforts to harmonise federal and state regulatory roles, describing such alignment as critical to job creation, revenue growth and sustainable investment.
As Nigeria continues efforts to strengthen infrastructure development and improve the business environment, stakeholders say the engagement in Onitsha underscores the importance of intergovernmental cooperation in the management of natural resources. For operators along the River Niger, clear policies and constructive dialogue remain essential to long-term stability and growth.