In light of the escalating fatalities and boat accidents on Nigeria’s waterways, the recent appointment of Mr. Bola Oyebamiji as the managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has raised expectations among maritime stakeholders. Despite entering the position on October 25, 2023, a year later, the outlook remains grim as inland waterways continue to be plagued by insecurity and operational failures. Reports indicate that there have been 116 deaths recorded in incidents over a span of eight months, highlighting the dire need for change. Within the last decade, the Marine Crafts Builders Association of Nigeria documented a staggering 3,130 incidents, emphasizing an urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and stricter regulatory measures that have not yet materialized under Oyebamiji’s leadership.
The depth of the crisis was brought to light by a series of tragedies, the most harrowing being a recent incident on October 7, 2023, when a boat carrying evacuees from flooding capsized, leading to the death of 76 individuals, including mothers and children. This shocking event raised significant questions regarding NIWA’s efficacy in ensuring passenger safety. Other incidents shortly after, including capsizings in Taraba and Lagos States, resulted in additional deaths. The recurrent nature of these boat mishaps underscores the inadequate regulatory framework governing the waterways and the lack of necessary equipment, such as life jackets, as well as vessel maintenance.
Despite the gravity of the situation, NIWA has made some attempts to address the alarming trend of boat accidents. Initiatives have included a newly launched transportation code aimed at imposing stringent regulations on boat operators and passengers. Central to this code is the mandatory registration of vessels, a prohibition on overloading, and the requirement for all passengers to wear life jackets. NIWA’s Lagos Area Manager, Sarat Braimah, emphasized the importance of these regulations and promised strict enforcement, particularly during the peak season of waterway traffic around the “ember months,” a time when accidents tend to rise due to increased passenger volume.
Stakeholder sentiments express deep concern regarding the frequency of these incidents. Boat users and industry experts have attributed the mishaps to factors like overcrowding, poorly maintained vessels, and a general lack of safety equipment. Mr. Pius Agbude, a former chairman of the United Waterways Passengers Association, criticized NIWA for its passivity since gaining legal control over the waterways. Simultaneously, Mr. Gbenga Oluwadiya acknowledged that while accidents happen, many fatalities might be avoided with proper safety measures and public education about safety gear such as life jackets. Both stakeholders agreed that there is ample room for improvement in NIWA’s oversight and operations.
Rising insecurity further complicates the landscape of waterway transportation in Nigeria. Reports of kidnappings and violent acts against maritime workers only heighten the anxiety surrounding these routes. Such incidents have pressured NIWA to address not only safety in terms of vehicle operation but also the general security of passengers. Capt. Tajudeen Alao from the Nigeria Association of Masters Mariners acknowledged the complexity of managing waterways in a vast country with many remote communities while emphasizing that NIWA bears considerable responsibility for safeguarding lives at sea.
To counter the ongoing tragedies and restore public confidence in waterway safety, a multifaceted approach is essential. Proposed strategies include increasing safety awareness campaigns, enforcing regulations strictly, and fostering collaborations with local governments and community leaders to ensure compliance with safety protocols. Continued engagement with stakeholders to solicit feedback and address concerns will also be crucial in crafting effective solutions. As the situation stands, NIWA faces the critical challenge of transforming its regulatory framework into one that courageously prioritizes human life over expediency in order to alleviate the distressing and tragic consequences currently endured on Nigeria’s waterways.
