The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has received the long-awaited report from the Special Committee set up to address the alarming rise in boat mishaps across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Abuja, the Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing water transport safety.
He recalled that the committee was inaugurated on February 27, 2025, in response to a spate of deadly boat accidents that claimed numerous lives nationwide.
Describing the recurring tragedies as both a policy and moral failure, Oyetola stated:
“The safety of our citizens on water is not just a policy responsibility—it is a moral duty. Every life lost in a boat mishap is one too many.”
He stressed the urgent need for a coordinated and sustained approach to enforce safety regulations, improve operational standards, and rebuild public confidence in the nation’s water transport system.
Commending the committee for its diligence, the Minister praised the depth of analysis in the report, which includes comprehensive data assessments and field research.
He assured Nigerians that the recommendations will be acted upon promptly and with the seriousness they demand.
Presenting the report, the committee chairman, Mr. Bola Onyebamiji, disclosed that extensive consultations were held with key stakeholders across the maritime sector—including boat operators, regulatory agencies, and affected communities.
Onyebamiji said the report emphasizes the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, deployment of advanced surveillance systems, and improved training for boat operators to mitigate future incidents.
He urged the Ministry to swiftly review and implement the committee’s recommendations to enhance safety and restore public trust in water transportation.
Reporting by Ibrahim Shehu