A devastating trend of boat mishaps has plagued Nigeria’s inland waterways, resulting in over 1,500 deaths in the past five years. The latest tragedy occurred on October 7th in Lagos State, where two overcrowded boats collided, claiming three lives and leaving two missing.
Maritime expert Dr. Bolaji Akinola attributes these accidents to negligence, recklessness, and incompetence. “Rickety boats, overloading, and disregard for safety regulations are common,” he says. “Underwater wrecks and lack of enforcement by regulatory authorities exacerbate the issue.”
Key Findings:
– 1,500 lives lost in five years
– 300 lives lost in 2024 alone
– NIWA’s ineffectiveness in enforcing safety standards
– State regulatory agencies’ failure to ensure safe passage
– Boat operators prioritize profits over safety
Call to Action:
Dr. Akinola urges comprehensive reforms, including:
1. NIWA overhaul and empowerment
2. Mandatory training for boat operators
3. National awareness campaign on water safety
4. Enhanced technology and infrastructure
5. Independent oversight body to investigate accidents and impose penalties
“The lives lost are not just statistics; they are human beings with families and futures,” Dr. Akinola emphasizes. “Nigerian lives should not be sacrificed to systemic incompetence, indifference, or greed.”
Sources:
– Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Maritime Expert and CEO of Ships & Ports
– Vanguard News
