In a bid to finish recurring fatalities on Nigeria’s waterways, the Federal Authorities has introduced plans to implement the obligatory use of life jackets and regularly part out unsafe and rickety boats from industrial operations.
Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Financial system, made the declaration on Friday in Abuja whereas receiving the Report of the Particular Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria.
The minister described the present spate of boat accidents as “unacceptable and preventable,” stressing that the federal government would implement sweeping reforms to revive confidence in water transport and make sure the security of all customers.
“The security of our residents on water is not only a coverage accountability; it’s a ethical responsibility. Each life misplaced in a ship mishap is one too many. This report will function a basis for speedy and long-term reforms. We are going to research the suggestions intently and act the place coverage changes or institutional coordination are required”, he acknowledged.
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In keeping with an announcement signed by Bolaji Akinola, Particular Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister of Marine and Blue Financial system. The Particular Committee, inaugurated on twenty seventh February 2025, was tasked with reviewing industrial boat operations in Nigeria and recommending lasting options to frequent accidents.
The 16-member physique, led by Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the Nationwide Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), offered a complete report containing 64 suggestions, 17 of which had been highlighted as high priorities.
Among the many proposals are the institution of a Coastal Guard to implement waterway security laws, the event of a Nationwide Boat Design Coverage, and necessary certification and formal coaching for boat operators.
Oyetola mentioned the Federal Authorities had already commenced proactive measures, together with the approval of a nationwide distribution of life jackets to riverine and coastal communities. He urged all water transport customers to make correct use of the protection gear.
The minister burdened the pressing want for attitudinal change amongst water transport customers, particularly concerning the usage of life jackets, describing such security gear as non-negotiable. He additional revealed that the Federal Authorities is ready to part out rickety boats, typically implicated in deadly accidents, and substitute them with safer, standard-compliant alternate options.
He additionally warned that ageing and substandard boats, typically answerable for tragic incidents, can be systematically eliminated and changed with safer, standard-compliant vessels.
Learn additionally: Oyetola flag-offs 3,500 life jacket distribution campaign in Lagos
The minister referred to as on State Governments and sub-national our bodies to companion with the federal authorities in implementing the protection reforms.
“The struggle in opposition to boat mishaps can’t be gained by the Federal Authorities alone. We name on state governments to collaborate with us in imposing requirements and saving lives,” he famous.
The Committee chairman recommended the minister for the assist and expressed optimism that the findings would mark a turning level in Nigeria’s water transport security.
“We adopted each bodily and digital conferences and created 4 specialised sub-committees to make sure a sturdy and sensible report. We hope our findings function a blueprint for lasting security within the sector,” he added.
The Committee’s members embrace a mixture of consultants from academia, engineering, coverage, legislation, and marine security.
