LunagisthubFG Urges States to Ban Wooden Boats on Waterways Amid Rising Accidents
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has renewed his call on state governments to ban the use of wooden boats for commercial transportation on waterways. This call comes in the wake of several recent boat accidents that resulted in multiple casualties and left families grieving across several communities .
Oyetola highlighted the dangers of wooden boats, citing their poor construction, lack of stability, and vulnerability to structural failure. He noted that wooden boats deteriorate quickly due to constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, leakages, and eventual collapse. This, he said, puts passengers’ lives at serious risk .
The minister urged waterway users to prioritize safety by complying with established safety guidelines. He warned against traveling at night due to poor visibility and heightened risks on the water. Oyetola also appealed to passengers to insist on the use of quality life jackets before boarding any vessel and to refuse to board rickety or overloaded boats .
Oyetola emphasized the need for state governments to invest in safer, modern fibre and aluminium boats. He noted that these vessels are designed to meet safety standards and can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways .
To prevent future accidents, the government and waterway users must work together to prioritize safety. This includes:
– Banning the use of wooden boats for commercial transportation
– Investing in modern, safe vessels
– Enforcing safety regulations and guidelines
– Educating passengers on their rights and responsibilities
By taking these steps, we can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that our waterways are safe for everyone .
Lunagisthub
