Security & Safety
Ondo State Government Partners with NIWA to Enhance Waterway Safety
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has received strong backing from the Ondo State Government in its ongoing efforts to improve safety and security on the state’s waterways. This collaboration was reinforced with the official launch of the Operation Safe Ondo Waters and Waterways Insurance Scheme, an initiative aimed at promoting safer and more sustainable water transport.
The program was formally unveiled by the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through the Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore, and the Special Assistant on Pipeline Surveillance and Inland Waterways Security, Engr. Alore Omosuyi. The launch underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that riverine communities, boat operators, and other water users benefit from improved safety measures.
Speaking at the launch event, Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore emphasized that the state government recognizes the economic and social importance of inland waterways and is committed to making them safer for transport and commercial activities. He noted that enhancing waterway security and infrastructure would boost trade, reduce accidents, and provide better opportunities for communities dependent on water transportation.
“Waterways remain a critical component of Ondo State’s transportation and economic system. With this initiative, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that residents who rely on these routes for daily activities can do so with minimal risk. Our government, in partnership with NIWA, is determined to create a safer environment for all water users,” he said.
In further demonstrating its commitment to safety, the Ondo State Government procured 1,500 life jackets as part of the initiative. These jackets will be distributed free of charge to boat passengers, fishermen, and other water users to ensure compliance with safety standards. Engr. Alore Omosuyi stated that the life jackets would significantly reduce fatalities in the event of boat mishaps and that the state government would continue to invest in initiatives that prioritize safety on its waterways.
“This intervention is a game-changer for water transport safety in Ondo State. Many avoidable accidents occur due to the non-use of life jackets, and this initiative directly addresses that issue. We urge all waterway users to take advantage of this effort and always prioritize safety,” Omosuyi stated.
The Operation Safe Ondo Waters and Waterways Insurance Scheme is expected to provide additional security measures, including improved monitoring of waterway activities, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and enhanced emergency response mechanisms. The insurance aspect of the scheme is designed to offer financial protection to water users in case of accidents, ensuring that victims or their families receive necessary support.
Stakeholders at the event, including representatives from NIWA, local boat operators, and community leaders, commended the initiative, describing it as a crucial step toward reducing waterway-related incidents. Many expressed optimism that the partnership between NIWA and the state government would not only save lives but also promote economic activities by making inland water transport more secure and efficient.
A NIWA representative at the event thanked the Ondo State Government for its proactive approach in supporting inland waterway development. He reiterated NIWA’s commitment to working closely with the state government and other stakeholders to maintain safety, improve navigation infrastructure, and enforce compliance with water transport regulations.
With the launch of Operation Safe Ondo Waters, the state government and NIWA have set a precedent for collaborative waterway management in Nigeria. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance the security of passengers and cargo, improve water transport reliability, and boost economic activities in riverine communities across the state.
As efforts continue to modernize and regulate Nigeria’s inland water transport sector, the Ondo State initiative serves as a model for other states looking to prioritize safety, security, and economic sustainability on their waterways.