Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Calls for an End to Use of Wooden Boats

Strategic Insights -

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed deep sadness over the recurring loss of lives in boat accidents on Nigeria's waterways. The Honourable Minister extended his condolences to the victims and their families, while reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment to prioritizing waterways safety. Despite recent interventions, including the distribution of 3,500 life jackets, the Minister emphasized that the use of wooden boats is still a major contributor to accidents, as they are structurally weak and prone to overloading. He called on State governments to invest in modern, non-wooden boats, such as fibre and aluminum boats, which are safer and more durable.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has commiserated with the victims and families of the recent boat accident in Sokoto State.
  • The Honourable Minister expressed sadness over the recurring loss of lives on Nigeria's waterways, emphasizing that the fatalities are both painful and avoidable.
  • Despite recent interventions, including the nationwide distribution of 3,500 life jackets, wooden boats are still a major contributor to accidents due to their structural weaknesses.
  • The Minister called on State governments to invest in modern, non-wooden boats, such as fibre and aluminum boats, which are safer and more durable.
  • The Federal Government is committed to improving waterways safety through stronger regulation, compliance enforcement, and collaboration with States, private investors, and boat manufacturers.
  • The Minister emphasized that every life lost on Nigeria's waterways is one too many and that action is needed now to ensure safety and confidence in water transport.
  • The use of wooden boats is a relic of the past and is not suitable for modern commercial operations.
  • State governments are urged to partner with the Federal Government to provide safe boat transport options for their riverine communities.

Statistics:

  • Over 3,500 life jackets have been distributed nationwide by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
  • Wooden boats are still widely used for commercial operations in Nigeria, despite being structurally weak and prone to overloading.
  • The Minister estimates that upgrading to modern, non-wooden boats could save countless lives and boost the economy.

Sources:

  • Statement by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.