NIWA Cracks Down on Unlicensed Boats to Curb Waterway Fatalities

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has ordered an immediate ban on all commercial boat operations from unauthorised points across Nigeria, citing rising accidents and safety concerns on the nation’s inland waterways.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji said:

“No commercial passenger boat shall load from any point other than those recognised and registered by NIWA. All operators must ensure passengers wear lifejackets, and boats must display their names and load lines clearly.”

Oyebamiji also directed that all unlicensed boats and watercraft be removed from Nigerian waterways immediately.

The move follows a series of deadly incidents in recent months. In April, a boat carrying traders on the Niger River capsized near Sokun Village in Lapai LGA, Niger State, during a sudden storm. Local reports indicated multiple fatalities, though exact numbers remain unconfirmed.

In July, a passenger boat carrying rice, livestock, and about 40 people collided with a submerged log on the Shiroro River, Niger State. Rescue teams recovered 15 bodies, with three still missing, while 26 passengers wearing life jackets survived.

Sokoto State witnessed two fatal accidents in mid-August, including a heavily loaded boat ferrying women, children, and motorcycles to Goronyo market that capsized.

The most recent tragedy occurred in September on the Kainji Reservoir’s Malale River near Gausawa, Borgu LGA, Niger State, where a wooden boat carrying mourners overturned, leaving over 27 people confirmed dead.

NIWA’s directive underscores urgent efforts to prevent further loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways.