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Federal Government Pledges Support for Borgu Boat Mishap Victims
Federal Government Pledges Support for Borgu Boat Mishap Victims
NEMA to provide assistance to families and survivors following Niger State tragedy
ABUJA – The Federal Government has announced it will provide comprehensive support to families of victims and survivors of the tragic boat accident in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State that claimed 32 lives on Tuesday.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the government received news of the incident “with a heavy heart” and described the tragedy as particularly devastating given its timing – barely four months after destructive floods ravaged Mokwa, also in Niger State.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the government, and the people of Niger State. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy,” Idris stated in a personally-signed statement.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, resulted in 32 fatalities while approximately 50 passengers were successfully rescued from the ill-fated vessel.
The Federal Government, working through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), will collaborate closely with the Niger State Government to ensure prompt relief and assistance reaches those affected by the disaster.
Idris commended the Niger State Government and its State Emergency Management Agency for conducting swift rescue operations that ensured all passengers aboard the vessel were accounted for during the emergency response.
In response to recurring waterway accidents, the Federal Government has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to implement a comprehensive nationwide sensitization campaign focused on inland waterway safety measures.
“I will use this opportunity to once again remind our people to always prioritize safety when traveling on our inland waterways,” Idris emphasized. “No one should embark on boat journeys without wearing appropriate life jackets – these safety precautions can make the difference between life and death.”
The announcement comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with frequent boat accidents on its extensive network of rivers and waterways, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and public awareness regarding water transportation risks.