The federal government has donated 3500 life-jackets to Ogun State Government for waterways operators in the state.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who handed over the life-jackets on Tuesday, assured Nigerian inland waterways users that the ministry will stop at nothing to curb the needless loss of lives on waterways.
Represented by Director of Maritime Services in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mercy Ilori, the Minister said the campaign is part of a deliberate national strategy to embed a culture of safety on our inland waterways.
“This is one of the most comprehensive federal government responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways.
Consequently, there have been successful handovers of Safety life jackets at Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States.
We are now in Ogun State to sustain the momentum and reveal the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Ogun.
“You will all agree with me that the frequency and tragic consequences of boat mishaps across the country are deeply concerning. It is in recognition of this menace that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to prioritize life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change.”
He stressed that the government’s commitment to end the needless loss of lives on waterways is anchored on three pillars: Strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; Continuous public education and sensitization campaigns; and Provision of critical safety equipment, notably life jackets, to waterway users.
“It is worthy to note that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), a key agency under the Ministry, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this strategy. NIWA continues to lead in regulation, monitoring compliance, and supporting education and enforcement efforts on our inland waters,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, assured the minister that the life jackets will be distributed equitably to registered operators across the state.
The Governor, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo stated that safety on the nation’s waterways wasn’t a privilege but a right of everyone in Ogun State.
He also assured that the State is ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain the momentum but to enhance inland waterways as viable and secured alternative to road infrastructure.
“Safety on the waterways is not a privilege, it is a right. Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future secured. This initiative aligns with the human capital development pillar of our administration’s ISEYA agenda ensuring that people remain at the heart of our progress
“Ogun State values the synergy we have fostered with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and applauds their dedication to the development of marine infrastructure, safety standards, and the blue economy as a whole. Ogun State stands ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain this momentum, not only in marine safety but also in enhancing indand waterways as viable and secure alternatives to road transport.”
“To our waterway users, boat operators, fishermen, and residents of our riverine communities: these life jackets are for you. But more importantly, the knowledge and awareness you will gain from this sensitization effort will serve as your daily companion, protecting you and helping you protect others