From Emmanuel Adeyemi, Lokoja
Worried by the incessant waterway accidents that have led to the loss of lives and property, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebanji, has identified human error, drug abuse, and disobedience to rules and regulations as the major causes of boat mishaps.
Oyebanji, who disclosed this while fielding questions from members of the House of Representatives Committee on NIWA during an oversight visit to the Authority’s headquarters in Lokoja on Wednesday, stated that NIWA was committed to the safety of Nigerians using water transportation.
The Managing Director pointed out that 99 percent of the mishaps on the waterways were the result of human error, noting that research had shown that operators were committing avoidable mistakes that should not have caused havoc.
He stated that some of the operators use drugs to influence their activities, making them high, which eventually leads to unpardonable mistakes.
Oyebanji added that some operators were reluctant to follow rules and regulations, stressing the absurdity of wooden boats carrying over 150 to 200 passengers instead of the recommended 50.
He lamented that the Transportation Code requires revalidation because operators have not been strictly adhering to it, while some are not providing the required life jackets for their passengers.
He stated that the Regulation Code only imposed a penalty of N30,000 for offenders, which he said must be reviewed to serve as a deterrent.
The Chairman of the House Committee on NIWA, Hon. Ojema Ojotu, who led the other seven members to the NIWA headquarters, explained that inland waterways are an integral part of Nigeria’s transportation framework, offering immense potential for enhancing connectivity, reducing road congestion, and stimulating economic growth.
“As representatives of the people, it is our duty to ensure that this potential is harnessed effectively for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“This visit provides us with the platform to scrutinise critical areas such as operational efficiency, safety on our waterways, infrastructure development, and the overall management of resources allocated to NIWA.
“We recognise the unique challenges associated with managing waterways, including the recurring issues of boat mishaps, flooding in vulnerable regions along the waterways, and the demand for modernised infrastructure such as inland ports and navigable channels.
“As we deliberate today, it is imperative to consider how these challenges can be addressed to enhance safety, efficiency, and economic viability.
“The strategic importance of inland ports cannot be overstated, especially in fostering internal and regional trade and serving as vital links in our national logistics chain.
“Similarly, the dredging of waterways remains key to unlocking the full potential of our inland transportation system, ensuring seamless connectivity and uninterrupted operations.
“Additionally, there is a need for human capacity development and the procurement of essential operational equipment, such as boats, to enhance safety enforcement, ensure rapid emergency responses, and deliver efficient services. While government funding remains critical, it is evident that traditional financing models may not suffice to meet the infrastructure and capacity-building demands of NIWA’s mandate.
“Therefore, it is imperative to think outside the box and explore alternative financing options, including public-private partnerships, concessional arrangements, and innovative funding mechanisms.
“These approaches can bridge funding gaps and drive impactful infrastructural development. As we engage with NIWA’s leadership and review their activities, let us remain focused on identifying practical solutions to the pressing issues facing the inland waterways sector.
“This Committee will continue to advocate for policies and budgetary allocations that align with national priorities and promote sustainable development,” the Chairman stated.