The Federal Government of Nigeria has set up a special committee as part of moves to end boat mishaps on the country’s inland waterways.
The committee was inaugurated Friday – earlier today, February 28 – by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in an apparent demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to protecting lives and fostering a sustainable marine transport system.
Addressing the Committee members and stakeholders, the minister emphasized the critical role of Nigeria’s waterways in commerce, transportation and livelihoods.
“Our waterways are lifelines that connect communities and drive economic growth. However, the frequent tragic boat mishaps across the country have posed significant challenges, resulting in the loss of lives and properties. This situation demands urgent intervention,” the Minister emphasized.
He noted that the establishment of the Special Committee is in response to the spate of recent boat mishaps.
“The Committee is to conduct an in-depth review of commercial boat operations, identify the root causes of boat mishaps, and recommend sustainable solutions,” he said, assuring that the Committee members were carefully selected based on their expertise, experience, and commitment.
He also reminded the committee members that the assignment is of national importance and should be approached with utmost dedication.
Chaired by the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, the committee comprises representatives of four states, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, an HSE expert from an oil company, a marine engineering expert, Association of Boat Owners, Association of Boat Operators, Dredger Association, and Heads of relevant Agencies of the Ministry.
Adams Offie, Deputy Director, Inland Waterways Division of the Ministry will serve as Secretary.
In further remarks regarding the significance of the Committee, the Minister said it aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day commemoration with the theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.”
Responding, the Committee Chairman and Managing Director, Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, told the minister:
“On behalf of the members of this Committee and the Management of National Inland Waterways Authority, I wish to sincerely salute your doggedness and proactiveness in providing effective leadership for this sector. Since your appointment, Sir, you have never relented in your struggle for a better maritime sector of the Nigeria economy.
“I therefore wish to assure you that the confidence reposed in this Committee will not be betrayed.”
The Committee members include Dennis Iyaghigba, Benue State – Member: Attaiiru Maccido, Kebbi State – Member: Yahaya Danladi, Kogi State – Member and
Adiza Idris Kuta, Niger State -Member.
On the experts group are Capt. Stan Igwe, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau -Member; Ralph Onoshapkor, Oando – Member and Prof. Idiba Douglas, Marine Engineering Specialist -Member.
Members of the Stakeholders group include Gani Tarzan Balogun, National Association of Boat Operators -Member; Tope Fajemirokun, Boat Owners Association -Member; Richard Ntan, Dredgers Association -Member
From the agencies are Dr. Dayo Mobereola, NIMASA- -Member; Prof. Sule Abiodun, NIOMR -Member; Dr. David Olasebikan, FCFFT – Member; Prof. Busayo Fakinlade, Technical Adviser to HMM&BE -Member and Mr. Adams Offie, FMMBE, Secretary.
