Oyetola Sets Up Special Committee to Curb Incessant Boat Mishaps on Nigerian Waters

Oyetola Sets Up Special Committee to Curb Incessant Boat Mishaps on Nigerian Waters

In a move to mitigate activities of unlicensed boat operators, and as well curb the wave of incessant boat mishaps on Nigerian coastal waters, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has inaugurated a Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps.

This according to the ministry in a press statement signed by Anastasia Ogbonna, Director, Information and PR, is a significant step towards enhancing safety on inland and coastal waterways by.

At the recent formal inauguration performed on Friday February 28, 2025, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON underscores the government’s commitment to protecting lives and fostering a sustainable marine transport system.

While addressing the Committee members and Stakeholders, the Minister emphasized the critical role of Nigeria’s waterways in commerce, transportation, and livelihoods.

“Our waterways are lifelines that connect communities and drive economic growth.

Group photograph of the Minister with the newly constituted Committee

“The frequent tragic boat mishaps across the country have posed significant challenges, resulting in loss of lives and properties, and this situation demands urgent intervention,” the Minister emphasized.

He also further noted that the establishment of the Special Committee is in response to the spate of recent boat mishaps.

“The Committee is to conduct an in-depth review of commercial boat operations, identify the root causes of boat mishaps, and recommend sustainable solutions”.

He affirmed that Committee members were carefully selected based on their expertise, experience, and commitment, as he stressed that the assignment is of national importance and should be approached with utmost dedication.

Mr Bola Oyebamiji, MD, NIWA

The Committee which has the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji as the Chairman, also comprises representatives of four selected states, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, HSE expert from an oil company, a marine engineering expert, Association of Boat Owners, Association of Boat Operators, Dredger Association, and Heads of relevant Agencies of the Ministry, as well as Adams Offie, Deputy Director, Inland Waterways Division of the Ministry who will serve as Secretary.

Speaking further on the significance of setting up the Committee, the Minister said it aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day commemoration with the theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First.”

Responding, the Committee Chairman and Managing Director, Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, said “On behalf of the members of this Committee and the Management of National Inland Waterways Authority, I wish to sincerely salute your doggedness and proactiveness in providing effective leadership for this sector.

“Since your appointment, Sir, you have never relented in your struggle for a better maritime sector of the Nigeria economy.

“I therefore wish to assure you that the confidence reposed in this Committee will not be betrayed”. Oyebamiji said.

The Committee members are:

States

Dennis Iyaghigba, Benue State – Member

Attaiiru Maccido, Kebbi State – Member

Yahaya Danladi, Kogi State – Member

Adiza Idris Kuta, Niger State – Member

Experts

Capt. Stan Igwe, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau – Member

Ralph Onoshapkor, Oando – Member

Prof. Idiba Douglas, Marine Engineering Specialist – Member