The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on state governments across the federation to invest in safer, modern fibre and aluminium boats to reduce the growing number of accidents on Nigeria’s waterways.
He also renewed his call for an urgent ban on the use of wooden boats for commercial water transportation.
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Minister’s Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola, against the backdrop of recent tragic boat accidents that claimed several lives.
Oyetola expressed deep sympathy with the victims of the mishaps and extended heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones.
According to him, the continued use of wooden boats remains a major contributor to fatal accidents on inland waterways.
The minister stressed that phasing out wooden boats in favour of fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium alternatives would significantly improve safety.
“Fibre and aluminium boats are more durable, stable, and resistant to corrosion, making them better suited for commercial operations,” Oyetola said.
He explained that modern boats offer better balance and buoyancy, reduce the risk of sudden breakage, and can be equipped with essential safety devices.
Oyetola also charged waterway users to take personal responsibility for their safety by adhering strictly to basic safety rules.
He warned against night travel due to poor visibility and higher risks, and urged passengers to insist on wearing approved life jackets at all times.
The former Osun State Governor further advised commuters to refuse boarding rickety or overloaded boats, stressing that no journey is worth risking lives.
“Avoid night travel, wear life jackets and prioritise safety above all else,” he said.
The minister noted that many wooden boats in use are poorly constructed, inadequately maintained, and prone to structural failure, especially when overloaded or exposed to harsh weather.
“Wooden boats deteriorate quickly due to constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, leakages, and eventual collapse,” he stated.
He added that many are operated without proper regulation or adherence to safety standards, putting passengers at serious risk.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to waterway safety, Oyetola disclosed that the ministry distributed 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025 to boost safety awareness and preparedness.
However, he noted that accidents persist due to the continued reliance on unsafe wooden boats.
He urged state governments to complement federal efforts by investing urgently in modern, non-wooden boats and ensuring the availability of standard life jackets for passengers
Oyetola emphasised that ensuring safety on Nigeria’s waterways requires collective action and political will at all levels of government.
“Water transportation is a critical component of our blue economy, but it must be safe, regulated, and sustainable,” he said.
In December, no fewer than six passengers were confirmed dead, while four others were rescued, following a boat accident along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun Water Channel in Lagos.
