The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has expressed concern over the rising cases of boat accidents in the country.
It attributed 90 percent of the accidents to human error and advised water transportation users to steer clear of substandard boats and unprofessional boat drivers.
NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji stated these at a technical meeting with boat manufacturers in Abuja.
Oyebamiji emphasised the need for the National Assembly to pass the Coastal Guards Bill to improve safety and security on waterways.
He said that the low level of professionalism among some boat operators was a major source of worry to the body. The NIWA boss added that many of the boat operators/ drivers consume alcohol and substances even in the morning time.
His words: “I was at a training session with some boat drivers and discovered that we have a long way to go in this country.
“Many of our boat operators are not only untrained but get inside the boats already intoxicated even in the early hours of the day. This is unacceptable, and we are working tirelessly to address these issues.
“To tackle the challenges posed by substandard wooden boats, NIWA has intensified its collaboration with indigenous boat builders to phase out these boats from the system.
READ ALSO: LASTMA Launches Whistle App to Report Traffic Violations
‘’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.”
“Additionally, NIWA has intensified its sensitisation campaigns across various riverine communities to raise awareness about the dangers of using unsafe boats and to promote adherence to safety protocols.
“We have visited numerous riverine villages and cities to advocate for safety on our waterways.
“But for us to achieve comprehensive safety and security, we appeal to the National Assembly to help prioritise and pass the Coastal Guards Bill. This will equip us with the necessary tools to regulate and secure our waterways effectively.”
Oyebamiji reaffirmed NIWA’s commitment to ensuring the safety of passengers using the country’s waterways.
He called for collective efforts from boat operators, passengers, and policymakers to prevent future tragedies.
The most recent boat accident in the country was on December 16, 2024, when many people lost their lives in River Benue.
