House of Representatives Urges Safety Measures To Prevent Boat Mishaps; Calls for Study Of Netherlands’ Water Transportation System

Additionally, the House mandated the Committee on NIMASA (when constituted) to visit the Netherlands to study their boats and watercraft management in coastlines and waterways transportation, with a focus on minimizing casualties….CONTINUE READING

The House emphasized the importance of implementing new regulatory guidelines and ensuring compliance to enhance rescue operations and safeguard lives and property.

Mr. Ambaiowei highlighted that Nigeria’s vast coastline spanning about 853km and over 3000km of navigable inland water channels hold immense potential for inland cargo and passenger transportation.

However, repeated incidents of insecurity, illegalities, and tragic accidents, including crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, piracy, and illegal fishing, have been plaguing the waterways.

He emphasized the significance of the inland waterways, which traverse 23 states of the Federation, and recounted specific boat mishaps that occurred in different parts of the country.

The causes of these mishaps were attributed to factors like alcohol use, excessive speed, improper navigation practices, inadequate safety measures, and the negligence and inexperience of boat operators.

Mr. Ambaiowei highlighted incidents such as a tragic boat mishap in Bayelsa State, where five lives were lost, and another mishap in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, where a female youth corps member and five others lost their lives.

He also mentioned various other incidents in different states, underscoring the urgency of implementing robust safety measures to avoid future tragedies.

The House of Representatives commended the efforts of patriotic Nigerians in rescue operations and emphasized the need to prioritize and support the development of water transportation for sustainable economic growth.