In a bid to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated a Special Committee focused on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria. This initiative is aimed at addressing the increasing frequency of boat accidents, which have resulted in tragic losses of lives and property.
At the inauguration ceremony, held in the Ministry’s conference room, Oyetola stressed the urgent need to prevent further boat mishaps, highlighting the importance of the country’s waterways to commerce, transportation, and the livelihoods of many Nigerians. He emphasized that the safety and efficiency of these waterways are crucial for the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.
“This 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 stated, underlining the significance of the initiative.
The formation of the committee aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.” The committee will be tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of commercial boat operations in Nigeria, identifying the root causes of accidents, and proposing sustainable solutions.
The committee is composed of 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, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), while Adams Offie, Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the Ministry, will serve as Secretary.
In his remarks, NIWA MD Oyebamiji assured the minister that the committee is committed to the successful completion of its mandate. He emphasized that safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways is non-negotiable and pledged that NIWA would continue to intensify efforts to minimize marine accidents.
“This is another solution-driven initiative aimed at eliminating boat mishaps on our waterways. On behalf of my fellow committee members, we pledge to work diligently and with utmost focus on the assigned terms of reference,” Oyebamiji stated. He also noted that NIWA has been refocused under the minister’s leadership to uphold its mandate without compromise, ensuring the highest safety standards on Nigeria’s waterways.
The inauguration of the Special Committee marks a significant step toward addressing the persistent safety challenges in Nigeria’s inland water transport system and is expected to contribute to the development of the country’s blue economy.
