The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah, has emphasized the urgent need for the enforcement of maritime safety regulations and the establishment of Coast Guards to curb the rising incidents of boat mishaps across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Dr. Akutah said the frequent accidents—particularly those occurring at night—are largely due to poor visibility, inadequate lighting, and weak enforcement of existing safety guidelines.
“Most of these mishaps happen during the night when navigation is difficult. If regulations are properly enforced, such incidents can be drastically reduced,” he stated.
Dr. Akutah noted that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, has consistently advocated for the creation of a Coast Guard system to enforce laws and bolster security on the waterways.
According to him, the Coast Guards Bill, which is currently before the National Assembly, will provide the legal framework for setting up the body.
Once passed and assented to, the Ministry will expedite its implementation.
“The Coast Guards will be instrumental in enforcing the ban on night-time navigation, managing boat mishaps, and ensuring the overall safety of our inland waterways,” he said.
Dr. Akutah also disclosed that the federal government is planning to commence local manufacturing of boats as part of efforts to retire aging, unsafe vessels that contribute to accidents.
He added that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is working closely with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to strengthen safety mechanisms and introduce more professional standards in boat construction.
“African countries are already advancing in boat fabrication. Nigeria must not be left behind,” he said.
The move is part of a broader strategy by the federal government to professionalize water transport, enhance safety, and develop the country’s blue economy potential.