In a renewed effort to curb the loss of lives on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Federal Government has donated 3,500 life jackets to the Ogun State Government for distribution to waterways operators across the state.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made the donation on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding water transport users nationwide.
“This is one of the most comprehensive Federal Government responses to the persistent loss of lives on waterways,” said Oyetola. “We have previously distributed life jackets in Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States. Ogun is the next phase in our commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The minister outlined the three key pillars of the government’s strategy:
- Strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023.
- Public education and awareness campaigns.
- Provision of critical safety equipment, including life jackets.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), under the ministry, continues to play a pivotal role in implementing this strategy through regulation, compliance monitoring, and community sensitization.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, welcomed the donation, affirming the state’s readiness to distribute the life jackets fairly across verified operators in riverine communities—from Iwopin to Imakun Omi and Ode-Omi.
“Safety on the waterways is not a privilege but a right,” said the governor. “Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved. Ogun will ensure strict monitoring to guarantee proper use.”
NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, represented by Engr. Elsie Egwuatu, emphasized the tragic cost of ignoring safety protocols. He recalled several fatal accidents caused by overloading, nighttime travel, and lack of life jackets—underscoring the urgent need for regulation enforcement.
“If you think safety is expensive, try disaster,” she warned, noting that over 90% of accidents are due to human error, especially negligence by boat captains.
Also speaking, Alhaji Tarzan Balogun, National President of ATBOWATON, commended the donation but called for stricter enforcement: “There must be a firm policy—no life jacket, no entry.” He further urged Ogun State to establish a dedicated waterways authority and develop jetties in partnership with operators.
Stakeholders applauded the initiative as a major milestone in enhancing safety and sustainability on Nigerian waterways.