The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has mandated boat operators to ensure passenger manifests are accurately filled and verified before departure, and also conduct safety briefings before every trip.

The authority, while issuing its safety and security advisory, mandated all boat operations to cease by 6:00p.m daily, with nighttime travel on waterways strongly discouraged.

The advisory also warned against any activities that could destabilise boats while in motion and mandated wearing life jackets as a non-negotiable requirement for all onboard boats.

The NIWA management warned that assaulting or attacking the authority?s officers or Water Marshals while performing their duties is a punishable offence that attracts severe penalties.

The advisory guidelines also include a prohibition on boat overloading, mandatory provision of life jackets to passengers at no cost, and a strict ban on the consumption of alcohol or any other prohibited substances by boat operators and passengers.

In a statement from NIWA management, the agency called for strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a secure environment for passengers and operators.

?Passenger safety is our utmost priority and this festive period demands heightened vigilance,? the statement reads. NIWA emphasised the need for boat operators and passengers to strictly follow safety measures to prevent avoidable accidents.

The authority highlighted the importance of adhering to the Transportation Code, 2023, which has been gazetted and will be strictly enforced to ensure safe water transportation.

To ensure swift emergency responses, NIWA has placed its operational bases on high alert and provided two emergency response lines for public use: 07039748740 and 08059543364.

NIWA called for collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to strictly comply with these safety measures to prevent avoidable tragedies during the festive season and ensure a safe and joyous moment for all.

?We are committed to maintaining secure inland waterways and preventing avoidable tragedies. This directive comes as Nigeria?s inland waterways see a significant increase in traffic during the festive period, underlining the Authority?s proactive stance in safeguarding lives and property,? the statement added. (The Guardian)

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