NIWA MD advises Nigerians to prioritise safety during yuletide

The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Ola Oyebamiji has advised Nigerians to prioritize their safety while using the country’s inland waterways during the festive period.

In a statement released by NIWA, Oyebamiji highlighted the importance of adhering to the Transportation Code 2023, which has been gazetted and will be strictly enforced to ensure safe water transportation.

Oyebamiji emphasized the need for boat operators and passengers to strictly follow safety measures to prevent avoidable accidents.

Among the guidelines outlined, boat operators have been directed to avoid overloading their boats beyond approved limits and are required to provide lifejackets to passengers free of charge.

According to the managing director, the Authority banned the consumption of alcohol and other prohibited substances before or during boat rides.

Oyebamiji declared that it is mandatory for passenger manifests to be properly filled and confirmed before departure, while a compulsory safety talk must be conducted before setting sail.

NIWA stressed that boat operations must not extend beyond 6:00 PM, and passengers are strongly advised against traveling on waterways at night.

NIWA also warned against any activities that could destabilize boats while in motion and mandated all passengers to wear lifejackets while onboard.

Assaulting or attacking NIWA officers or Water Marshals while they are performing their duties was also declared a punishable offense.

To ensure swift emergency responses, NIWA has placed its operational bases on high alert and has made emergency response lines – 07039748740 and 08059543364 – available to the public.

The managing director reiterated the commitment of his administration to maintaining safe and secure inland waterways for all users.