Abuja: Dr Pius Akutah, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), has emphasized the importance of enacting necessary regulations and ensuring strict enforcement to address the frequent boat mishaps occurring on Nigeria’s waterways. Akutah highlighted that most of these incidents occur at night due to the challenges of navigating in darkness.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akutah discussed the need for regulation and enforcement, noting the initiative by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, to establish coast guards. The proposed coast guards would be tasked with ensuring security and enforcing regulations on inland waterways. Akutah expressed confidence that once the coast guard bill passes through the National Assembly and receives assent, the minister would promptly establish the coast guard system.
Akutah further explained that the coast guards would play a crucial role in enforcing regulations against night navigation on inland waterways, thereby reducing or managing boat mishaps and enhancing safety. Additionally, he revealed plans by the Federal Government to manufacture boats locally to replace those prone to accidents.
He noted that the ministry, in collaboration with the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), is working to prevent accidents on the waterways. Akutah mentioned that the minister is exploring new methods for boat manufacturing in Nigeria to phase out the rickety wooden boats that are easily capsized. He pointed out that many countries, including those in Africa, have begun fabricating boats with professional standards, and there are plans to develop boats with the right specifications as part of the recently unveiled blueprint.