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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has renewed his call for state governments across Nigeria to ban the use of wooden boats for commercial water transport, urging investment instead in modern fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium vessels.
Speaking in the wake of recent tragic boat accidents that claimed several lives, the Minister extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who lost their loved ones. These recurring tragedies are painful and unacceptable, and they underscore the urgent need to address the root causes of waterway accidents in the country,” he said.
Oyetola also warned waterway users to take personal responsibility for their safety. “Waterway users must refuse to board rickety or overloaded boats. No journey is worth risking your life. Avoid night travels, wear life jackets, and prioritise safety above all else,” he said, urging passengers to insist on wearing approved life jackets at all times and avoid travelling in poor visibility.
According to the Minister, the persistent use of unsafe wooden boats in many riverine states, coupled with non-adherence to safety standards, remains the major contributor to accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways. “Wooden boats deteriorate quickly due to constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, leakages, and eventual collapse. They lack stability, are easily capsized, and often have no safety features. In many cases, they are operated without proper regulation or adherence to safety standards, putting passengers’ lives at serious risk,” he explained.
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He stressed that transitioning to fibre and aluminium boats would dramatically improve waterway safety.
“These modern boats are stronger, more reliable, and easier to maintain. They offer better balance and buoyancy, reduce the risk of sudden breakage, and can be fitted with essential safety equipment,” he said.
Highlighting the Federal Government’s commitment to safety, Dr. Oyetola noted interventions such as the distribution of 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025 to enhance passenger preparedness. “Despite these efforts, we are still witnessing boat mishaps, largely because of the persistent use of unsafe wooden boats,” he said.
The Minister appealed to state governments to complement federal initiatives by investing in modern vessels and providing standard life jackets for commercial passengers. “Water transportation is a critical component of our blue economy. But it must be safe, regulated, and sustainable. Together, we can put an end to these avoidable tragedies and protect the lives of our citizens,” he concluded.
