The federal government, through the ministries of marine and blue economy, and transportation have been asked to investigate incessant boat mishaps in the country
Just as predicted in OrderPaper’s LIFE Service this week, the House of Representatives called on the federal government through the ministry of marine and blue economy and the ministry of transportation to conduct a thorough investigation into the recent boat mishaps in Nigeria.
The ministries were tasked to provide insights and recommendations on improving maritime safety.
The lawmakers also urged Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enforce safety regulations and ensure compliance with international maritime standards.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of importance by Rep. Unyime Idem (PDP Akwa Ibom).
Highlighting the recent Kogi boat mishap on November 29, 2024, Rep. Idem noted that over 160 passengers were aboard the ill-fated vessel along the Dambo-Ebuchi waterways of the River Niger in Kupa Local Government Area of Niger state. Only 24 were rescued, with 54 confirmed dead and several still missing.
He also recounted other recent tragedies, including the October 3, 2024, accident in which nearly 200 lives were lost when a wooden dugout canoe carrying 300 passengers capsized in the River Niger.
He said: “Just last week, a collision between two boats in Delta State, southern Nigeria, claimed the lives of five people. The reoccurrence of these devastating incidents, culminating in the recent Kupa boat mishap in Kogi State, underscores the urgent need for improved maritime safety measures in Nigeria.
“The maritime experts have identified a combination of critical factors contributing to the alarming frequency of boat accidents in Nigeria, including inadequate boat maintenance and poor design, overloading, lack of essential safety equipment and emergency response plans, insufficient training for boat operators, and a lack of strict regulatory enforcement.
He criticized the NIMASA and NIWA for prioritizing revenue generation over passenger safety.
“The recent surge in boat accidents has raised concerns about the safety of Nigeria’s waterways and the need for urgent intervention. If nothing is done to improve safety and emergency response systems, Nigerians will continue to face psychological trauma, economic losses, and untimely deaths.” Rep. Idem added
STAR Check: Nigerians, particularly, constituents of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam, can keep tabs on the legislative performance of Rep. Idem throughout the 10th House here
