The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on state governments to discontinue the use of wooden boats and opt for fiber and aluminum ones to enhance safety and promote modern water transport. This appeal comes after a recent boat mishap in Sokoto State, which resulted in loss of life. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made this statement while commiserating with the victims and their families.
According to Oyetola, the tragic incident was a consequence of relying on unsafe vessels. He emphasized that despite the ministry’s efforts to distribute 3,500 life jackets to each riverine state, boat mishaps persist due to the widespread use of wooden boats. The minister pointed out that wooden boats have structural weaknesses, making them unsafe for commercial operations and should be phased out.
Oyetola stressed that fiber and aluminum boats are sturdier, safer, and more durable, representing the global standard for inland and coastal waterway transport. He urged state governments, particularly those with large riverine populations, to invest in these modern boats, describing such investments as life-saving and economically strategic. The minister noted that while life jackets are essential, they alone cannot guarantee safety without safe boats.
The Federal Government has mandated the compulsory use of life jackets and has supplied them to riverine states. However, Oyetola appeal to state governments to complement the federal government’s efforts by investing in fiber and aluminum boats. This investment is seen as crucial for securing a safer and more prosperous future.
The call to adopt modern boats is part of the government’s effort to promote safe and efficient water transport in the country. With the growing importance of waterways in Nigeria’s transportation network, the need for safe and reliable boats cannot be overstated. The minister’s appeal highlights the need for state governments to prioritize the safety of their citizens and invest in modern boats that meet global standards.
