In a recent meeting with editors in Lagos, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, announced that NIWA is preparing to phase out wooden boats on Nigeria's inland waterways. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase safety standards and improve the quality of water travel across the country.
Oyebamiji highlighted that wooden boats currently make up over 90% of boats on Nigeria’s waterways. However, they also contribute significantly to the number of accidents due to their non compliance with safety regulations. Wooden boats, often managed by operators with limited education, frequently neglect critical safety rules, such as avoiding night travel, preventing overloading, and ensuring life jackets are used.
Traveling at night is not only a hazard but a criminal offense in Nigeria. Oyebamiji explained that most wooden boats lack adequate lighting, further increasing the risk of accidents. In addition, overloading is a common issue that compromises stability and safety on the water. Oyebamiji pointed out, The boats are piloted by people of the lowest education in Nigeria, which complicates efforts to maintain standard operational practices.
To mitigate these challenges, NIWA has strengthened its presence at jetties nationwide. Previously, NIWA had 80 marshals deployed across various jetties; this number has now increased to 350. At least two marshals are present at each jetty, covering both morning and night shifts. Their responsibilities include monitoring boat operators and ensuring compliance with safety standards, especially regarding night travel, overloading, and life jacket use.
In addition to stationing marshals, NIWA has launched an awareness campaign targeting boat operators and passengers. The campaign, delivered in English and local languages, aims to educate the public on the dangers of neglecting safety protocols and encourage adherence to safer practices.
NIWA’s ultimate goal is to replace all wooden boats with more modern and safer alternatives. Oyebamiji mentioned that the agency is in active discussions with the Presidency and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, to develop and implement a plan to phase out wooden boats nationwide.
In the meantime, NIWA is deploying additional patrol boats to monitor the waterways and enforce the NIWA Code. The Nigerian Navy is also supporting this initiative by helping to uphold safety standards and conduct regular patrols.
As Oyebamiji stated, We will continue to push by applying education, enlightenment, and sanctions where necessary until we have zero fatalities on our waterways. NIWA’s efforts, from increased oversight to long term fleet modernization, are steps toward ensuring safer water travel. With the commitment of all stakeholders, including local communities, the phase-out of wooden boats could be a turning point for waterway safety in Nigeria.
By focusing on both immediate enforcement and future oriented infrastructure improvements, NIWA is setting the stage for a safer, more reliable inland waterway network that can benefit communities across the nation.