Sokoto: To enhance safety and reduce boat mishaps in Sokoto State’s riverine communities, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has distributed 20 motorised boats and 2,000 life jackets to rural residents across the state. Speaking at the distribution ceremony held in Dundaye village of Wamakko Local Government Area, Governor Aliyu said the initiative is aimed at safeguarding the lives and property of riverine dwellers who depend largely on water transportation for their daily activities.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the governor highlighted the recent cases of boat mishaps recorded in some local government areas, which claimed lives and destroyed property. He cautioned captains of the boats against overloading and insisted that anyone found doing so will face consequences. Governor Aliyu further directed local government chairmen to ensure proper maintenance and security of the boats, emphasizing the importance of protecting this significant investment.
The governor urged passengers to follow the rules and regulations when using the boats to achieve the initiative’s objectives. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Sokoto State and sought their continued support and prayers. Special Adviser on the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Aminu Liman Bodinga, praised the governor for his support, especially during emergencies, noting that over N3 billion had been spent on food and relief items for displaced persons.
Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, commended the governor for extending his transport initiatives to include waterways. He referenced the distribution of over 70 mass transit buses and taxis, aimed at reducing transport costs, and noted that the boats would improve water transportation during the rainy season when floods often isolate some communities.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Managing Director, represented by Engineer Muhammad Bello, applauded Governor Aliyu for procuring the motorised boats and lifejackets. He mentioned that Sokoto is the second state after Lagos to make such a procurement and praised the governor’s support for federal establishments as exemplary.
A statement by the Director General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Abubakar Bawa, noted that other speakers at the event included House Leader Bello Idris, representatives of NEMA, the Sultan of Sokoto, and the Chairman of Wamakko Local Government, Umar Ahmed.