Upsurge of Boat mishap in Nigeria exposes dormancy of NIWA
By Oru Leonard
The recent surge in boat mishaps in Nigeria highlights the National Inland Waterways Authority’s (NIWA) ineffectiveness in ensuring safety on the country’s waterways. With over 1,000 Nigerians dying in boat accidents over the last four years, it is clear that NIWA’s regulatory framework and operations is failing to prevent these tragedies.
Recently, NIWA has shown inability to enforce safety regulations, such as the use of life jackets and restrictions on overloading and night travel which contributes to the high number of accidents.
The lack of proper dredging and maintenance of waterways, as well as insufficient safety equipment, exacerbates the problem.
Allowing boat operators to flout rules with impunity raises concerns of likely corruption.
On the forward, The Federal Government should strengthen regulatory frameworks by empowering NIWA to enforce safety regulations more effectively, including stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Investing in waterway maintenance and providing safety equipment can help reduce accidents.
In addition increased transparency and accountability through regular safety audits and inspections can help identify areas for improvement.
To prevent further tragedies, Nigeria needs a comprehensive overhaul of its waterway safety regulations and enforcement. This includes:
Implementing standardized boat designs and safety equipment can help reduce accidents.
Providing regular safety training for boat operators and enforcing certification requirements can improve safety standards.
Establishing 24-hour monitoring and enforcement systems, particularly in high-risk areas, can help prevent accidents.
Ultimately, the Nigerian government must prioritize waterway safety and provide NIWA with the necessary resources and authority to effectively regulate and enforce safety standards.
About the Writer
Oru Leonard Oru is a renowned Nigerian media professional with notable achievements in advertising and transportation. Key highlights include
– Elected Chairman of Abuja Transportation and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA) in February 2023, serving till February 2025
Professional Affiliations:
– Fellow of ARCON: Recognized for expertise in advertising
– Member of NIM: Demonstrates involvement in management and professional development
– Media Contributions:
– Publisher of News Dot Africa: Showcases his media expertise
– Consultant for Magazines: Highlights his influence in the media circle
– Business and Technology Involvement:
– Vice President, NBBTF: Fosters Nigerian-Bangladesh business relations
– Member, IKOMCIMMA: Supports commerce and industry development
