Maritime
Boat Mishap: FG Vows To Ensure Safer Waterways
Federal Government says it would ensure a more safer waterways to save lives and properties for water users.
For this reason, the government said it’s improving safety measures and rescue operations across Nigeria’s waterways.
Minister of State for Works, Alhaji. Bello Goronyo, stated in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Muhammad Ahmad, in Sokoto State.
Goronyo, who stated this during a visit to the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamji, in his office, commended the agency’s officials for their swift rescue action during the recent boat mishap in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The Minister commended the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for its prompt intervention, saying that coordinated rescue efforts saved lives and enabled the speedy recovery of victims.
“The rescue efforts in Sokoto highlight the importance of synergy between agencies. NIWA and NEMA arrived early, rescuing passengers and recovering victims.
“This level of dedication shows what can be achieved when agencies work together in unity”, he said.
Goronyo stressed that such engagements must be sustained as a continuous platform for collaboration rather than a “one-off meeting.”
He noted that the Federal Government remains committed to providing infrastructure, equipment, and policies to prevent casualties and ensure safe, efficient, and secured inland water transport nationwide.
He also lauded President Bola Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that its vision supports improved safety, infrastructure, and service delivery across water transport.
Earlier, Managing Director, NIWA, Bola Oyebamji, thanked the Minister for his leadership and assured that the agency would continue to prioritise safety and enhance waterway navigation.
Oyebamji said the Federal Government will soon receive five new boats, including aluminium and iron vessels, with one designated for deployment to Sokoto State.
He added that immediate steps are underway to clear water hyacinth obstructing waterways in the region, thereby easing free movement.
The Director also confirmed that arrangements have been completed for distributing life jackets to riverine communities in the coming weeks.