NIWA to phase out wooden boats

To address the increasing number of boat accidents, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is considering the gradual elimination of wooden boats from Nigerian waterways.

Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director of NIWA, announced this plan during a press briefing with journalists in Lagos on Friday. He described the initiative as a comprehensive strategy to tackle the issue of boat accidents nationwide and mentioned plans to involve Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, as well as the Presidency, to establish this policy as a national directive.

“We are looking into phasing out wooden boats, particularly those used for passenger transport,” Oyebamiji said, noting that the implementation will occur in phases, incorporating short-term, medium-term, and long-term objectives to minimize disruption to inland waterway operations.

Additionally, Oyebamiji highlighted that NIWA has intensified its outreach efforts in riverine communities, especially targeting traditional and religious leaders to boost grassroots awareness campaigns. Following the launch of the Inland Waterways Transportation Code, the authority has actively engaged these community leaders.

He also reported an increase in the number of waterways marshals, from 80 to 350, to enforce the new transportation code effectively.

“Our experience in Gbajigbo, Niger State, prompted us to collaborate with the Transportation Commissioners from the 24 states with navigable waterways. We convened a meeting in Abuja, attended by 23 of the 24 commissioners,” he added.

Oyebamiji urged state governments with navigable waterways and private operators to invest in safety measures and efficient operations. He emphasized the importance of using standard life jackets and reducing nighttime travel on the waterways.

“While wrecks contribute to boat accidents, we are working with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to tackle this issue. However, human factors such as overloading, nighttime travel, and poor navigation skills are more common causes of these accidents,” Oyebamiji concluded.