Despite the Federal Government’s distribution of 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025, fatal boat accidents continue to occur on Nigeria’s inland waterways, prompting renewed calls for the ban of wooden boats used for commercial transportation.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, who made the call on Sunday said the persistence of boat mishaps showed that safety interventions alone were insufficient without strict enforcement and the replacement of unsafe vessels.
Oyetola, who expressed condolences to families affected by recent accidents, said investigations have repeatedly linked most waterway tragedies to the use of rickety wooden boats and widespread disregard for basic safety rules.
“While we have taken deliberate steps to improve safety consciousness through the distribution of 35,000 life jackets, accidents are still happening because unsafe wooden boats remain in operation,” the minister said.
He explained that many of the boats currently used for commercial transport are poorly constructed, inadequately maintained and prone to sudden structural failure, especially when overloaded or operated at night.
In a statement by his Special adviser, Dr, Bolaji Akinola, the minister said wooden boats deteriorate quickly due to constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, leakages and instability that often result in capsizing.
Oyetola stressed that transitioning to fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium boats would significantly reduce risks, noting that modern vessels offer better balance, higher durability and the capacity to accommodate standard safety equipment.
“These modern boats are more reliable and easier to maintain, making them safer for both operators and passengers,” he said.
Beyond government action, the minister urged waterway users to take personal responsibility for their safety by refusing to board overloaded or rickety boats, avoiding night travel and insisting on wearing approved life jackets.
“No intervention can succeed if passengers ignore basic safety measures,” he warned.
Oyetola called on state governments to complement federal efforts by investing in modern vessels, enforcing safety regulations and ensuring that life jackets are made available and worn on all commercial water transport routes.
He emphasised that water transportation remains a critical pillar of Nigeria’s blue economy, but warned that its growth would be undermined if safety challenges are not urgently addressed.
“Together, with firm enforcement and political will, these avoidable tragedies can be stopped,” the minister said.
