Oyetola Launches Nationwide Distribution of 42,000 Life Jackets to Curb Waterway Fatalities

Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in a bold and strategic move to enhance safety across Nigeria’s inland waterways, has flagged off the distribution of 42,000 life jackets to waterway users in 12 riverine states.

The official launch of the life-saving initiative took place on Tuesday in Minna, Niger State.

The intervention, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, marks one of the most significant government responses to the recurring loss of lives due to boat mishaps in Nigeria’s riverine communities.

Each of the 12 beneficiary states is set to receive 3,500 life jackets in the first phase of the nationwide effort to improve safety standards on the waterways.

Describing the initiative as more than a ceremonial exercise, Oyetola declared, “This event transcends mere ceremony; it embodies our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians who rely daily on our inland waterways.”

He further stressed that the distribution represents a proactive, life-saving response to the alarming rise in boat accidents caused by human error, poor equipment, and non-compliance with safety measures.

Oyetola characterised the trend of boat mishaps as a national emergency, urging all stakeholders to embrace collective responsibility in reversing the tide.

He also spotlighted the government’s introduction of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations, 2023 — popularly known as the Waterways Transportation Code — which aims to standardise operations, enforce safety compliance, and foster a structured environment for investment.

In a goodwill message, the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, applauded the Federal Government’s decision to commence the initiative in Niger State.

He described the state as a “critical focal point” in tackling waterway fatalities, noting that Niger recorded the highest number of casualties from boat accidents in 2024.

“The state government is determined to address this issue frontally through strict enforcement and proactive intervention,” Sarkin-Daji stated.

Reinforcing the importance of the initiative, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, explained that while vessel owners and operators are mandated by law to provide life jackets, the government is stepping in to bridge the gap.

“Our mission here today is to reiterate and encourage the use of life jackets by all inland water travellers. Safety on our waters is the first rule and remains a government priority. It deserves the cooperation of all,” he said, urging continuous sensitisation and public education to drive behavioural change among boat users.

The event also witnessed the formal donation of three passenger boats, a water ambulance, and a patrol boat to the Niger State Government by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), as announced by the state’s Commissioner for Transport, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta.

These assets are intended to further boost marine patrol and emergency response efforts within the state.

Dignitaries present at the flag-off included representatives of traditional institutions, government officials, and community leaders.

Notably, Brigadier General Yahaya Abubakar (Rtd), who represented the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Chiefs, commended the Minister for his foresight and called on communities to take full ownership of the safety initiative.

Other speakers included the Chairman of the Niger State House Committee on Transport, the Chairman of the Association of Boat Operators in Niger State, and representatives of boat commuters and local communities — all of whom praised the Federal Government’s intervention as timely and impactful.

With the flag-off concluded and distribution underway, the Federal Government is calling on state governments, traditional rulers, transport operators, and waterway users to actively support and sustain the initiative.

Authorities emphasised that fostering a culture of accountability, compliance, and preparedness is essential to ensuring safer inland water transportation for all Nigerians.