***Ogun State Pledges Equitable Distribution of Life Jackets as Part of Safety Initiative
By Sandra Chukwunyere
In a collaborative effort to improve safety standards on Nigeria’s inland waterways,the Federal Government, led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, HE Adegboyega Oyetola, has taken significant steps, including the recent donation of 3,500 life jackets to the Ogun State government.
This initiative is part of a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing the frequent accidents that claim lives on the nation’s waterways.
During the handover ceremony, Governor Dapo Abiodun emphasized the importance of each life jacket, stating, **“Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future secured.”** He highlighted that this effort aligns with the **ISEYA agenda**, which is focused on human capital development.
The Governor also urged boat operators, fishermen, and residents of riverine communities to adopt the practice of using life jackets. He affirmed the state’s commitment to the equitable distribution of the life jackets to verified operators across Ogun State’s waterways, which will include strict monitoring protocols to ensure sustainability and accountability.
Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), echoed the Governor’s sentiments, emphasizing that over 90% of accidents on waterways are attributed to human error, often due to captain negligence. He pointed out the newly gazetted **Marine and Transport Regulations Codes**, which mandate the compulsory use of life jackets for all users of the waterways.
Alhaji Tarzan Balogun, President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), also advocated for enhanced regulatory measures to prioritize safety. He expressed his gratitude for the government’s efforts, insisting on firm policies such as **”no life jacket, no entry,”** to ensure passenger compliance with safety measures.
The discussion also touched upon the necessity to combat irresponsible practices, such as allowing intoxicated passengers onboard or bringing animals that could pose threats to safety. Balogun called for the Ogun State government to take cues from Lagos by establishing a dedicated waterways authority and constructing necessary jetties in collaboration with local operators.
As Nigeria continues to push towards safer waterways, this initiative highlights a unified commitment from both government and stakeholders to address the pressing issue of safety in water transport.
