The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has issued a three-month ultimatum to boat operators to train and ensure properly licensing of their skippers.

This is as boat operators have claimed that water accidents were high in the country in recent times due to the meagre N3,000 daily payment by boat owners and the use of faulty engines in a bid to meet trip targets among many other reasons.

A statement by Engr. Sarat Braimah, NIWA Lagos Area Manager, stated this over the weekend during a pivotal industry meeting and safety sensitisation programme for boat skippers and deckhands operating in Lagos waterways.

Braimah is also canvassing enhanced water safety in a bid to address recent spates of mishaps in the sector in the country, saying this could only be achieved through training and licensing.

Braimah observed that boat operators lacked the basic safety measures, saying that NIWA would collaborate with the operators by providing certified trainers to deliver training at the rate of N80,000 each for boat skippers and others.

She explained that upon successful completion, operators would receive a license valid for three years, renewable upon expiration.

She insisted that boat operators are given three months window to ensure compliance and obtain licenses, after which enforcement would commence.

She threatened that any operator who failed to comply with the directive would be sanctioned and prosecuted according to the law of the land.

Braimah underscored the significance of the meeting, stating its primary purpose was to address challenges faced by boat operators, express concerns, and collectively strategise a way forward.

She lamented the recent surge in mishaps, emphasising that ensuring the safety of waterways was a shared responsibility.

Also, Mrs. Elsie Egwantu, NIWA Head of Department (HOD), Marine, stressed the importance of refreshing memories and sensitising operators on safety measures.

She urged operators to actively participate, express concerns, and engage in the process.

During the session, boat operators voiced concerns about inadequate remuneration, receiving a meager N3,000 per day with only one day off work.

To meet trip targets, some operators admitted to managing faulty engines, leading to over-speeding.

They explained that the rush to beat the 7:00 pm jetty closure time, avoiding a N50,000 penalty from the Lagos State Water Authority (LASWA), contributed to the unsafe practices.

The event saw the participation of over 180 boat captains from various jetties, including Ebute Ero, Majidun, Mayegun, Ijede, Ibeshe, Ofin, Badore, and Ajah.

Notably, nine boat captains have already undergone the training, obtaining the necessary certification and license. (Daily Independent)

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