In continuation of the Federal Government’s efforts to curb reoccurring boats mishap and ending unnecessary loss of lives on our Inland Waterways, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and in conjunction with the Lagos state government held a Marine Sensitization and Distribution of 3,500 Life jackets to waterways users in the State.

In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola CON, said, “It gives me great pleasure to witness this important event, aimed at advancing the national initiative of enhancing safety on Nigeria’s Inland Waterways”.

He encouraged the people to imbibe the culture of adhering to safety protocols before and during boarding, to limit incidents on the waterways as many of these incidents are avoidable.

He stated that “It is in recognition of this, that the Marine and Blue Economy aligned with the renewable agenda of the President of Nigeria, to patronize life-saving interventions, to bring about tangible change in the nation’s waterway. Our commitment is to end the avoidable loss of lives on the Nigerian waterway.”

The Minister was represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori the Director, Maritime Services, led the campaign.

On his part, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji FCIB, the Managing Director of NIWA reiterated the importance of adhering to safety regulations on the waterways. He said, “waterways safety is something that we all take seriously, especially at the National Inland Waterways Authority, and the Supervisory Ministry is working around the clock to make sure accidents on the waterway is eradicated”.

The event which took place at Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) headquarters at the Five Cowries Terminal in Lagos is themed; “No Life Jackets, No Entry.” and had in attendance representatives of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Lagos State government and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

Those in attendance were the Permanent Secretary of FMMBE, represented by Mrs. Ogbonnaya, Director of Press, Hon Oluwaseun Osiyemi, (Lagos State Commissioner of Transportation), Mr Tosin Emmanuel, (Managing Director, LASWA), Mr. Japhet Maisaje (GM-Audit, NIWA) Engr. Mohammed Dangana (GM-Special Duties, NIWA), Engr Sarat Briamoh (NIWA Lagos Area Manager), Deputy Directors of FMMBE, and other key stakeholders.