Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), recently visited Niger State to address the alarming safety concerns following a tragic boat accident that resulted in the loss of 36 lives in the Gbajibo area. This visit was marked by a humanitarian gesture, as Oyebamiji donated essential safety kits, including life jackets, to boat operators and passengers. His presence in Niger was not only a show of solidarity with the victims’ families but also part of a broader commitment to enhancing safety regulations on Nigerian waterways.
During his visit, Oyebamiji took the opportunity to express his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy on the local community. He highlighted the importance of safety compliance within the waterways sector and vowed to implement stricter regulatory measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. His statement underscored the critical role that both boat operators and passengers play in ensuring their own safety and that of others on board.
One of the key steps announced by Oyebamiji was the immediate order for the arrest of those responsible for the ill-fated boat operation, which he attributed to violations of safety protocols. He emphasized the need for accountability among boat operators, condemning the prevalent negligence that often includes overloading vessels and the disregard for using life jackets. By addressing these issues head-on, Oyebamiji aims to foster a culture of safety compliance among water transport operators and instill a sense of responsibility among passengers.
To reinforce safety measures, Oyebamiji revealed plans for NIWA water marshals to operate around the clock, ensuring that safety regulations are enforced consistently across Nigeria’s inland waterways. This approach reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, with an emphasis on maintaining high safety standards. The announcement of 24/7 monitoring represents a proactive strategy to deter potential violations and enhance the overall safety of water transportation.
In addition to the enforcement of regulations, Oyebamiji’s distribution of life jackets and safety kits during his visit serves as a practical step towards promoting safe practices on the waterways. He emphasized the necessity for boat operators and passengers to adhere to safety guidelines, particularly the importance of wearing life jackets and preventing overloading. His firm stance on zero tolerance for negligence resonates with NIWA’s goal of reducing the risk of accidents and preserving lives in the waterways sector.
Ultimately, NIWA’s initiative, exemplified by Oyebamiji’s visit, reflects ongoing efforts to bolster safety in water transport and prevent the loss of life that has become all too common in Nigeria’s inland waterways. The combined focus on accountability, regulation enforcement, and community engagement indicates a concerted effort to transform how safety is perceived and practiced among boat operators and passengers alike. Oyebamiji’s commitment to these principles signals a hopeful turn towards more secure and responsible water transport in the region.
