Lagos: The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is taking significant steps to address the recurring boat mishaps in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Niger and Kogi. The authority aims to minimize, if not eradicate, the frequent loss of lives due to these accidents.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NIWA Managing Director Mr. Bola Oyebamiji stated that a major factor contributing to fatalities on the waterways is the non-use of life jackets by travelers. In response, NIWA has begun distributing life jackets extensively, starting with the Gbajibo Community in Niger following a boat accident last year. This initiative expanded further with the distribution of 42,000 life jackets across various states, including Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, and Ogun.
In addition to the life jacket distribution, NIWA has organized a retreat in Abuja with all 36 Commissioners of Transport to discuss solutions to the persistent problem of boat mishaps. The authority has also donated water ambulances and patrol boats to Niger and Kwara and provided four fibre sail boats to Kogi. Furthermore, NIWA is partnering with fibre boat manufacturers to reduce reliance on wooden boats, which are commonly used by local passenger operators.
NIWA is also implementing water buoys across the country to guide boat operators. More than 1,500 buoys have already been laid in parts of River Niger. The authority has also introduced a transport code to penalize offenders on the waterways and increased the number of water marshals to enforce these regulations.
Water hyacinths, which obstruct water transportation, are being cleared in areas such as Omu Creeks, Lekki, and Ikorodu in Lagos State. Additionally, NIWA has organized a retreat for management staff to reinforce its zero-tolerance policy towards boat mishaps.
In a recent move, NIWA prosecuted two boat operators in Kogi State for negligence leading to the death of 19 passengers. The operators, Musa Dangana and Yakubu Dangana, faced charges due to their failure to heed warnings against night journeys and traveling without life jackets.
In Niger, the State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) is collaborating with the Ministry of Transport and NIWA to enhance safety measures. Dr. Ibrahim Hussaini, Overseeing Director General of NSEMA, emphasized the state’s commitment to providing life jackets and regulating boat operations to reduce fatalities.
Moreover, small loans are being explored for boat operators to purchase new boats and improve safety standards. Mr. Akapo Adeboye, Area Manager of NIWA for Niger and Kwara, highlighted intensified efforts to enhance water safety, including the distribution of life jackets and enforcement of safety protocols.
NIWA is also working on training boat operators in repair and maintenance to prevent accidents and is exploring joint ventures with security agencies to enforce safety regulations. The goal is to achieve zero-tolerance for safety breaches on Nigeria’s waterways.