- Its mandate includes conducting a thorough review of commercial boat operations
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated a special committee to curb boat mishaps on the country’s inland waterways.
The committee, launched in Abuja on Thursday, aims to address the persistent challenges of boat accidents, which have claimed lives and destroyed property across the nation.
Oyetola highlighted the urgency of enhancing safety measures, stating: “The menace of boat mishaps has led to significant loss of lives and properties. The safety and efficiency of our waterways are crucial to the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.”
The committee, chaired by the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, with Adams Office, the Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the ministry, serving as Secretary, has six weeks to complete its assignment and submit recommendations.
Its mandate includes conducting a thorough review of commercial boat operations, identifying the root causes of accidents, and proposing sustainable solutions.
The initiative aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the future: Safety First.”
Oyebamiji, speaking on behalf of the committee, assured of their commitment to the task, stating that safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways remains a top priority.
The committee’s work is expected to contribute to safer and more navigable waterways, bolstering commerce, transportation, and livelihoods in the country’s growing blue economy.
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