NIWA DG Calls For Quick Passage Of Coast Guards Bill, Urges Nigerians To Shun Rickety Boats

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has advised Nigerians against using substandard and poorly maintained boats while urging the National Assembly to ensure quick passage of the Coastal Guards Bill in order to enhance safety and security on the nation’s waterways.

 A statement made available to Team@orientactualmags.com noted that the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji said this during the technical meeting held with boat manufacturers in Abuja while reemphasizing the urgent need for the National Assembly to pass the Coastal Guards Bill into law so as to improve safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.

Recall that a tragic boat mishap was recorded along the River Benue route in Agatu Local Government, Benue State, on December 16, 2024, which claimed several lives.

Mr. Oyebamiji expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of boat accidents, attributing 90% of these mishaps to human errors. 

He highlighted the low level of professionalism among the boat operators, noting that many drivers lack proper training and are often under the influence  before embarking on their journeys.

‘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 them are not only untrained but also intoxicated 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. 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.

This collaboration is key to eliminating unsafe practices and ensuring the long-term safety of passengers on our waterways’ he said.

NIWA has also intensified its sensitization campaigns across riverine communities to raise awareness about the dangers of using unsafe boats and to promote adherence to safety protocols.

 Mr. Oyebamiji however noted that these efforts need to be supported by required legislative backing.

‘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 prioritize and pass the Coastal Guards Bill. This will equip us with the necessary tools to regulate and secure our waterways effectively’ he added.

NIWA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety on waterways while calling for collective efforts from boat operators, passengers, and policymakers to prevent future tragedies-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08059100286, 09094171980 or get in touch via orientactualmag@gmail.com.  Thank you