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Former Minister Calls for Urgent National Policy to Address Boat Accidents
Former Minister Calls for Urgent National Policy to Address Boat Accidents
Former Interior Minister and Chairman of Integrated Oil and Gas, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho, has called for urgent action from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to develop a comprehensive national policy addressing the rising number of boat accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Speaking at the Fellows’ Luncheon of the Centre for Marine Surveyors of Nigeria, Ihenacho emphasized the critical need for a robust framework incorporating advanced risk mitigation strategies to enhance waterway safety standards.
The former minister expressed grave concern over escalating boat mishaps, warning that the trend presents significant economic and reputational threats to the country.
“The frequency of these accidents tarnishes Nigeria’s maritime industry image and could discourage investment while undermining economic development,” Ihenacho stated.
Ihenacho, who also serves as Chairman of the Waterside Centre at the Mission to Seafarers, advocated for comprehensive infrastructure development. His recommendations include establishing emergency response systems, implementing coordinated rescue operations, and creating a functional weather alert system to minimize casualties.
He stressed the government’s responsibility to strengthen regulatory oversight within the inland waterways transport sector, describing many fatalities as preventable. Citing recent data, Ihenacho noted that 71 accidents recorded over four years resulted in 1,032 deaths.
“These lives could have been saved with adequate precautions, including the engagement of qualified marine surveyors,” he emphasized.
The former minister highlighted marine surveyors as essential professionals for ensuring maritime safety, from vessel and equipment inspections to enforcing industry standards and procedures.
Ihenacho concluded by calling for substantial investment in the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to build the institutional capacity necessary for safer inland water transport across Nigeria.
The call comes amid growing pressure on government agencies to address waterway safety as Nigeria’s inland water transport sector continues to expand.