The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to investigate the rising number of boat accidents across Nigeria’s waterways, which have resulted in significant loss of lives and property.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance on Tuesday, titled “Need to Investigate the Incessant Boat Mishaps in Nigeria’s Waterways.”
The motion was presented by Unyime Idem, the representative for Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State.
Idem expressed concern over the alarming frequency of boat accidents, citing the most recent incident on November 29, 2024, in Kupa Local Government Area, Kogi State.
The tragic mishap occurred along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, involving over 160 passengers. According to Idem, only 24 people were rescued, 54 fatalities were confirmed, and many remain missing.
“This is the third passenger boat accident in Nigeria within just 60 days,” Idem said.
He also recalled a disaster on October 3, 2024, when a wooden canoe carrying around 300 passengers sank in the River Niger, killing approximately 200 people. Additionally, he noted a boat collision in Delta State last week that claimed five lives.
“These recurring tragedies highlight the urgent need for enhanced maritime safety measures,” Idem emphasized.
He attributed the accidents to several factors, including poorly maintained and designed boats, overloading, lack of safety equipment, inadequate operator training, and insufficient enforcement of regulations by relevant agencies.
He further criticized the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and the National Inland Waterways Authority for prioritizing revenue generation over passenger safety.
“Maritime experts have identified critical shortcomings such as insufficient training for boat operators, a lack of essential safety equipment, and poor regulatory enforcement. If these issues are not addressed, Nigerians will continue to face psychological trauma, economic losses, and untimely deaths,” Idem warned.
The House urged the Federal Government to collaborate with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, as well as the Ministry of Transportation, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into recent boat mishaps and propose measures to improve safety.
NIMASA and NIWA were also tasked with enforcing compliance with international maritime safety standards.
