FG begins distribution of 42,000 life jackets to boost waterway safety

The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy (FMMBE) has began the distribution of 42,000 life jackets as part of a nationwide effort to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, flagged off the initiative on Tuesday in Minna, Niger.

Oyetola disclosed that the life jackets would be distributed across 12 selected riverine states, with each state receiving 3,500 units in the first phase of the strategic intervention.

“This initiative is aimed at curbing the alarming rate of boat mishaps and fatalities in riverine communities across the country.

“It is one of the most comprehensive Federal Government’s responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways,” he said.

The minister described the distribution as a proactive, life-saving measure in response to the recurring boat accidents caused by human error, poor equipment, and non-compliance with safety regulations.

He added that the project underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians who depended on waterways for daily transportation and commerce.

Oyetola also highlighted the importance of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations, 2023.

This is also known as the Waterways Transportation Code — as a framework to standardise operations, enforce safety compliance, and create an enabling environment for investment.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, reiterated the importance of life jacket usage among waterway users.

“While vessel owners and operators are legally mandated to provide safety equipment, the government is bridging existing gaps with this intervention,” he stated.

“Our mission today is to promote the consistent use of life jackets. Waterway safety is a national priority and requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.”

Oloruntola also called for sustained sensitisation efforts to build a culture of accountability, preparedness, and safety compliance on inland waterways.

Niger Governor, Mr Mohammed Bago was represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji.

Bago commended the federal government for launching the campaign in the state.

He noted that Niger had recorded the highest number of boat accident casualties in 2024, making it a critical area for intervention.

The governor reaffirmed the state’s commitment to enforcing waterway safety standards and supporting federal initiatives to reduce accidents.

The State Commissioner for Transport, Hadiza Kuta, praised the federal government for donating three passenger boats, a water ambulance, and a patrol boat through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

Kuta described the provisions as timely and strategic.

“These assets will significantly bolster our marine safety infrastructure and strengthen our capacity to prevent further mishaps,” she said.