Just IN : Oyetola, sets up special committee to tackle frequent incidents of boat accidents in the country

In a bid to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the federal government has inaugurated a Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, officially launched the initiative during a ceremony held at the ministry’s conference room in Abuja, marking a strategic step toward addressing the frequent incidents of boat accidents in the country.

Speaking at the inauguration, Oyetola underscored the urgency of tackling the persistent issue of boat mishaps, which have led to tragic loss of lives and property.

He highlighted the crucial role of the nation’s waterways in facilitating trade, transportation, and economic activities, emphasising that ensuring their safety is vital to the development of the blue economy.

He further linked the committee’s establishment to the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.”

“The task before us is daunting, but with unwavering commitment, we can eliminate boat mishaps and ensure that our waterways remain safe, navigable, and prosperous for generations to come,” Oyetola stated.

The committee brings together key stakeholders, including representatives from state governments, the Association of Boat Operators in Nigeria, marine safety specialists, and academia.

It will be chaired by the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB, while Adams Offie, Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the Ministry, will serve as Secretary.

Tasked with conducting a thorough assessment of commercial boat operations, the committee is expected to identify the underlying causes of accidents and propose viable, long-term solutions to enhance safety on the waterways.

Oyebamiji, in his acceptance address, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in the committee and assured the Minister of their full dedication to the assignment. He reiterated that ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s inland waterways remains a top priority and that NIWA, under the Minister’s leadership, has been repositioned to enforce its mandate effectively.

“This is another solution-driven initiative aimed at eliminating boat mishaps on our waterways. I assure you that the confidence reposed in this committee will not be misplaced. At NIWA, this is an opportunity for us to intensify our efforts in reducing marine accidents to the barest minimum. On behalf of my fellow committee members, we pledge to work diligently and with utmost focus on the assigned terms of reference,” Oyebamiji stated.

He further reinforced the agency’s commitment to ensuring high safety standards.

“Safety on our inland waterways is non-negotiable. NIWA has been refocused to ensure the highest safety standards, and this committee will work diligently to address the causes of boat mishaps and find lasting solutions,” he added.

The committee has been given six weeks to complete its assignment and submit its findings and recommendations.