• Committee Inauguration: The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, inaugurated a Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria.
• Purpose: The committee aims to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways by addressing frequent boat accidents.
• Significance: The initiative aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.”
• Committee Composition: Chaired by NIWA MD, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, with members including state representatives, boat operators, marine safety experts, and academics.
• Mandate: Conduct an in-depth review of commercial boat operations, identify causes of mishaps, and propose lasting safety solutions.
• Commitment to Safety: NIWA MD assured the minister of the committee’s dedication to reducing marine accidents and improving waterway safety.
In a move to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated a Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the ministry’s conference room, Oyetola emphasized the urgency of addressing recurring boat accidents, which have led to significant loss of lives and property. He described Nigeria’s waterways as crucial to commerce, transportation, and livelihoods, stressing that ensuring their safety and efficiency is vital to the growth of the country’s blue economy.
The minister highlighted that the committee’s establishment aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.” He underscored the importance of the committee’s work, stating, “The task ahead is challenging, but with unwavering commitment, we can eliminate boat mishaps and ensure our waterways remain safe, navigable, and prosperous for generations to come.”
The committee includes key stakeholders such as state government representatives, the Association of Boat Operators in Nigeria, marine safety experts, and academics. It will be chaired by the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, while Mr. Adams Offie, Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the ministry, will serve as Secretary.
The committee’s mandate includes conducting an in-depth review of commercial boat operations in Nigeria, identifying the root causes of boat mishaps, and proposing sustainable solutions to enhance water transport safety.
Speaking at the event, NIWA’s Managing Director, Oyebamiji, assured the minister of the committee’s dedication to its task. He emphasized that safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways is a top priority, adding that NIWA, under the minister’s leadership, is committed to upholding the highest safety standards.
“This initiative is a crucial step in tackling persistent safety challenges in inland water transport. We are committed to ensuring that boat mishaps become a thing of the past. The confidence reposed in this committee will not be misplaced, and we pledge to work diligently to achieve lasting solutions,” Oyebamiji stated.
He reiterated that NIWA remains focused on minimizing marine accidents and ensuring that Nigeria’s waterways are safer and more efficient for all users.
