Nigeria has inaugurated a special committee to combat the rising number of boat accidents on the country’s inland waterways, as authorities move to strengthen maritime safety regulations and protect lives.
The newly established Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps is chaired by the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji. It includes representatives from state governments, the Association of Boat Operators in Nigeria, marine safety experts, and academics. The Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Adams Offie, will serve as the committee’s secretary.
Government Vows Action as Boat Accidents Rise
At the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola described the increasing number of boat mishaps as an urgent national concern, calling for immediate and decisive action.
“Our inland waterways are vital for commerce, transportation, and livelihoods. Ensuring their safety is paramount to the success of our blue economy,” Oyetola said. “We can no longer afford to lose lives to preventable accidents. Safety on our waterways is non-negotiable.”
Nigeria has witnessed a series of fatal boat accidents in recent years, often attributed to overloading, poor vessel maintenance, lack of safety equipment, and harsh weather conditions. In October 2024, at least 60 people died when a heavily loaded boat carrying about 300 passengers capsized in Kebbi State. The recurring tragedies have sparked calls for stricter enforcement of maritime safety rules.
Committee to Review Boat Operations, Propose Reforms
The committee’s primary mandate is to conduct a comprehensive review of commercial boat operations, identify the root causes of mishaps, and recommend long-term solutions.
NIWA chief Oyebamiji pledged that the committee would deliver actionable recommendations to make Nigeria’s waterways safer.
“We are committed to ensuring the highest safety standards on our inland waterways. This committee will work diligently to address the causes of boat mishaps and implement lasting solutions,” he said.
Stronger Regulations and Training on the Horizon
Authorities have indicated that the committee’s findings could lead to new safety regulations, stricter enforcement measures, and improved training for boat operators. Oyetola stressed that compliance with safety protocols, such as the mandatory use of life jackets and regular vessel inspections, would be strictly enforced going forward.
With Nigeria’s inland waterways playing a crucial role in trade and transportation, the government is under pressure to enhance safety measures and prevent further tragedies. The committee is expected to submit its initial findings in the coming months, paving the way for policy changes aimed at reducing accidents and saving lives.
