To enhance safety on inland waterways, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, yesterday gave out 42,000 life jackets to waterway users across 12 selected riverine states. The items were distributed at a ceremony in Minna, Niger State.
The initiative is intended to curb the incessant boat accidents.
Each of the beneficiary states will receive 3,500 life jackets in the first phase of the strategic safety intervention by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. The initiative is one of the most comprehensive federal responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways.
“This event transcends mere ceremony; it embodies our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians who rely daily on our inland waterways,” Oyetola said.
He emphasised that the life jackets distribution is a proactive, life-saving response to the recurring boat accidents.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who was represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, lauded the Minister for launching the campaign in Niger State. He described the state as a “critical focal point” in the battle against waterway accidents, revealing that Niger State recorded the highest casualties from boat accidents in 2024.
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“The state government is determined to address this issue frontally through strict enforcement and proactive intervention,” Sarkin-Daji said.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, reiterated the importance of wearing life jackets, noting that while vessel owners and operators are legally responsible for providing them, the government has stepped in to bridge the gap.
He said: “Our mission here today is to reiterate and encourage the use of lifejackets by all inland water travelers. Safety on our waters is the first rule and remains a government priority. It deserves the cooperation of all.”
Goodwill messages were delivered by key stakeholders, including the representative of the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Chiefs, Brig. Gen. Yahaya Abubakar (Rtd); the Chairman of the Niger State House Committee on Transport; the Chairman of the Association of Boat Operators in Niger State; as well as representatives of boat commuters and community leaders. All the speakers commended the Ministry for its strategic and timely intervention.