FG sets up committee to curb boat mishaps in Nigeria

Adegboyega Oyetola, minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has inaugurated a Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The inauguration held in Abuja is crucial to addressing the recurring challenges of boat accidents in the country.

Oyetola emphasised the urgent need to stem the tide of tragic boat mishaps, which have resulted in significant loss of lives and property.

He described the country’s waterways as vital to commerce, transportation, and livelihoods, stressing that their safety and efficiency are paramount to developing Nigeria’s blue economy.

He further said that the establishment of the committee aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.”

“The task before us is daunting, but with unwavering commitment, we can eliminate boat mishaps and ensure that our waterways remain safe, navigable, and prosperous for generations to come,” Oyetola said.

The committee comprises key stakeholders, including state government representatives, the Association of Boat Operators in Nigeria, marine safety experts, and academics.

It will be chaired by Bola Oyebamiji, managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), while Adams Offie, deputy director of Inland Waterways at the Ministry, will serve as secretary.

The committee was tasked with conducting an in-depth review of commercial boat operations in Nigeria, identifying the root causes of boat mishaps, and proposing sustainable solutions.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Oyebamiji assured the Minister of their dedication to delivering on the assignment.

He emphasised that safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways is non-negotiable, adding that NIWA, under the leadership of the current Minister, has been refocused to uphold its mandate without compromise.

Oyebamiji said the establishment of this committee represents a critical step in addressing the persistent safety challenges in inland water transport.

“This is another solution-driven initiative aimed at eliminating boat mishaps on our waterways. I assure you that the confidence reposed in this committee will not be misplaced. At NIWA, this is an opportunity for us to intensify our efforts in reducing marine accidents to the barest minimum, and we pledged to work diligently and with utmost focus on the assigned terms of reference,” Oyebamiji said.

The committee has been tasked with evaluating the root causes of boat accidents and recommending lasting solutions to enhance safety and operational standards. It has been given six weeks to complete its assignment and submit its recommendations.