Federal Government Donates 3,500 Life Jackets to Boost Waterway Safety in Ogun State
Kathy Kyari
In a renewed push to bolster safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Federal Government has donated 3,500 life jackets to the Ogun State Government for distribution to waterway operators across the state.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, officially handed over the safety equipment on Tuesday. Represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Maritime Services in the ministry, the Minister assured waterway users that the government remains committed to ending preventable deaths on the nation’s waters.
“This is one of the most comprehensive Federal Government responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways,” Oyetola stated.
“Consequently, there have been successful handovers of safety life jackets at Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States. We are now in Ogun State to sustain the momentum and reveal the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Ogun.”
He emphasized that the initiative forms part of a broader national campaign to embed a culture of safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
“You will all agree with me that the frequency and tragic consequences of boat mishaps across the country are deeply concerning. It is in recognition of this menace that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has prioritized life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change.”
Oyetola outlined three pillars guiding the ministry’s commitment to safer waterways: the strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; continuous public education and sensitization; and the provision of essential safety equipment, including life jackets.
He further highlighted the role of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in implementing this safety strategy, noting: “NIWA continues to lead in regulation, monitoring compliance, and supporting education and enforcement efforts on our inland waters.”
Receiving the life jackets on behalf of the Ogun State Government, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, assured that the jackets would be equitably distributed to registered operators across the state’s waterways.
“Safety on the waterways is not a privilege, it is a right. Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future secured,” the Governor said. “This initiative aligns with the human capital development pillar of our administration's ISEYA agenda, ensuring that people remain at the heart of our progress.”
Abiodun expressed appreciation for the ministry’s support and pledged the state’s readiness to enhance marine infrastructure and promote safer water-based transportation.
“Ogun State hereby assures the Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy and NIWA that these life jackets will be equitably distributed to verified and recognised operators across the state's waterways, from Iwopin to Ebute-Ero, from Agbara to Tongeji, Imakun Omi to Ode-Omi, and other active riverine corridors,” he said.
“A strict monitoring and maintenance protocol will be enforced to ensure sustainability and accountability.”
The Governor also issued a stern warning on the need for responsible behavior and vigilance on the waterways. “As we continue to embrace innovation and development in transportation, we must also embrace accountability and responsibility. Let us not allow preventable tragedies to define our way of life. Let us instead champion the principles of safety, respect for life, and collective vigilance.”
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, represented by Engr. Elsie Egwuatu, emphasized the critical importance of adhering to safety standards, referencing past incidents where non-compliance led to mass casualties.
“In June 12, 2023, a wooden boat carrying wedding guests returning from a marriage ceremony from Niger State capsized in Jeva Channel Lake, in River Niger in Kwara State, owing to overloading and a submerged tree. The boat was reported to be carrying over 200 guests despite having the capacity of carrying just less than 100 passengers. More than 200 lives were lost, among which a father and four of his children were involved,” he said.
He also recalled a similar tragedy on October 1, 2024, where another overloaded boat with over 300 passengers capsized in Niger State, leading to the death of more than 100 people.
“So if you think safety is expensive, try disaster. Over 90 percent of accidents that happen on our waterways are caused by human error. In most cases, it is caused by captain's negligence,”
Egwuatu added. “The newly gazetted Marine and Transport Regulations Codes, which spells out offences and punishments, ranging from fine to imprisonment, mandates the compulsory use of life jackets for all waterways users sailing on our waterways.”
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Tarzan Balogun, National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), called for stricter enforcement of safety protocols and infrastructural development to ensure safer navigation.
“There must be a firm policy, no life jacket, no entry. I’ve witnessed several cases where passengers refuse to wear them. That should not be allowed. Safety must come first,” Balogun said.
He applauded the Federal Government, President Tinubu, and Minister Oyetola for their focus on marine safety and urged Ogun State to take a cue from Lagos State by establishing a dedicated waterways authority and building jetties.
0 Comments