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Sokoto Government Distributes Boats, Life Jackets to Enhance Water Safety

Sokoto State Government has distributed 20 motorised boats and 1,000 life jackets to riverine communities across 10 local government areas as part of efforts to improve water safety and prevent boating accidents.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who launched the initiative on Wednesday, said the distribution demonstrates his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property in flood-prone areas. “These facilities will significantly reduce canoe accidents and ensure safer transportation for our people,” he said.

The governor highlighted the devastation caused by last year’s floods, noting that 22 out of 23 local government areas were affected, resulting in the destruction of farmlands, homes, and loss of lives. He warned boat operators against overloading, emphasizing that violators would face strict penalties.

The local government areas benefiting from the initiative include Goronyo, Shagari, Sabon Birni, Wamakko, Kebbe, Rabah, Isa, Wurno, Tambuwal, and Silame. Chairmen of the councils have been instructed to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the boats.

Governor Aliyu also commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Federal Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for supporting Sokoto’s disaster response efforts, pledging continued investment in safety and development for vulnerable communities.

Olayinka Babatunde