By Sandra Chukwunyere
In significant step toward enhancing water safety in Lagos State, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, donated 3,500 lifejackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA)
On Wednesday,
The ceremony took place as part of the government’s initiative to foster a culture of safety on Nigeria’s waterways.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Marine Services, emphasized the importance of water safety and the need for collaboration with state and local governments to achieve sustainable results.
He noted that the distribution of lifejackets is part of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change.
The minister highlighted that the challenge posed by boat crashes and related fatalities across the country remains a grave concern.
“Many of these tragedies are preventable and often arise from neglect of basic safety measures, particularly the use of lifejackets. He emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is committed to ending the avoidable loss of lives on Nigeria’s waters.
“To achieve this goal, the ministry has developed a strategy anchored on three pillars: strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; continuous public education and sensitization campaigns; and provision of critical safety equipment, notably lifejackets, to waterway users.
“The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), a key agency under the ministry, continues to lead efforts in regulation, compliance monitoring, and support for education and enforcement along Nigeria’s inland waterways”
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, appreciated the federal government’s efforts and acknowledged the impact of the initiative on water safety in the state. He noted that the continuous collaboration and initiatives between the federal government and Lagos State would boost safety on the waterways.
The Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, emphasized the importance of safety on waterways and the need for collective responsibility. He highlighted the need for a coast guard to arrest criminals on the waterways and appealed to the National Assembly to pass the Coast Guard Bill. He assured that NIWA would ensure a free and zero-mishap environment on the waterways.
The General Manager of LASWA, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, expressed gratitude for the donation and assured that the authority would ensure proper distribution and utilization of the lifejackets. He noted that 1,000 life jackets were received, and 2,500 more were on their way. He emphasized the need for legislation to criminalize non-use of lifejackets on waterways.
The donation of lifejackets to LASWA is a significant step towards enhancing water safety in Lagos State. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of its citizens and reducing the risk of accidents and fatalities on Nigeria’s waterways.
