By Sandra Chukwunyere
As the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) calls on the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the Coastal Guards Bill so as to enhance safety and security across the nation’s waterways, it urges Nigerians to avoid using substandard and poorly maintained boats.
Speaking at a technical meeting with boat manufacturers in Abuja, NIWA Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji emphasized the urgent need for the National Assembly to pass the Coastal Guards Bill into law to improve safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.
The Managing Director’s call comes shortly after the December 16, 2024 tragic boat mishap which claimed several lives along the River Benue route in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
Mr. Oyebamiji expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of boat accidents, attributing 90% of these mishaps to human error. He highlighted the low level of professionalism among some boat operators, revealing that many drivers lack proper training and are often under the influence of intoxicants before embarking on their journeys.
“I was at a training session with some boat drivers and discovered that we have a long way to go in this country,” Oyebamiji regretted.
“Many of them are not only untrained but also intoxicated in the early hours of the day. This is unacceptable, and we are working tirelessly to address these issues.”
Oyebamiji recognized the challenges posed by substandard wooden boats. To tackle these, he stated, NIWA has intensified collaboration with indigenous boat builders to phase them out from the system. The initiative aims to encourage the production and use of safer, modern boats that meet global standards. This effort is part of NIWA’s broader strategy to improve the quality of water transportation and enhance safety.
“We are actively working with indigenous boat builders to replace wooden boats with durable, safer alternatives,” Oyebamiji noted.
“This collaboration is key to eliminating unsafe practices and ensuring the long-term safety of passengers on our waterways.”
NIWA has also intensified her sensitization campaigns across various riverine communities to raise awareness about the dangers of using unsafe boats and to promote adherence to safety protocols. However, Mr. Oyebamiji stressed that these efforts need to be supported by legislative backing.
“We have visited numerous riverine villages and cities to advocate for safety on our waterways,” he said. “But for us to achieve comprehensive safety and security, we appeal to the National Assembly to help prioritize and pass the Coastal Guards Bill. This will equip us with the necessary tools to regulate and secure our waterways effectively.”
NIWA, the Managing Director affirmed, is committed to ensuring the safety of passengers using the country’s waterways. The agency calls for collective efforts from boat operators, passengers, and policymakers to prevent future tragedies.
