The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed his condolences to the Niger State Government and the families of those who lost their lives in the recent boat accident on the Gbajibo River in Niger State.

Oyetola also urged boat users to avoid night travel, refrain from overloading vessels and ensure the use of life jackets before embarking on any journey, regardless of the distance.

He emphasized that night travel and overloading are leading causes of avoidable deaths on Nigerian waterways.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ismail Omipidan, the minister stressed that collective action is needed to prevent further boat accidents. He called on boat users to strictly adhere to water transportation regulations.

?I am aware that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) recently launched an advocacy campaign, warning against rising water levels, night travel, overloading, and the failure to use life jackets. NIWA has also deployed water marshals to enforce the transportation code,? Oyetola said.

He further tasked NIWA with rigorously enforcing the water transportation code to standardize operations, reduce accidents, and create a safer environment for potential investors in the marine sector.

Oyetola also called on state governments, particularly those in coastal areas, to cooperate with NIWA in tackling the ongoing issue of boat mishaps. He emphasized that a coordinated effort is essential to end the frequent accidents on Nigeria?s waterways. (Vanguard)