NEMA, Stakeholders Strategize to Curb Rising Boat Accidents in Niger State

NEMA, Stakeholders Strategize to Curb Rising Boat Accidents in Niger State

 

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Minna Operations Office, has engaged key stakeholders in a bid to tackle the increasing incidence of boat accidents in Niger State.

 

Reports from Minna indicate that the meeting, held at the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), provided a platform for experts to share insights, best practices, and strategies to prevent and respond to boat mishaps.

 

Mr. Hussaini Isah, Head of NEMA Minna Operations, stressed the importance of preparedness, enforcement, and rapid response in reducing the impact of boat accidents on lives, livelihoods, and local infrastructure.

 

“Boat accidents and other water-related hazards pose serious threats to Nigeria’s socio-economic and environmental stability,” he said, adding that the meeting aimed to foster collaboration among agencies and communities to mitigate these risks.

 

Isah highlighted key intervention areas, including identifying causes of boat accidents, improving search and rescue operations, continuous public sensitisation, and enforcing mandatory use of life jackets. He also called for shared responsibility among agencies, coordinated life jacket distribution, and support from state and local governments to provide lasting solutions for riverine communities.

 

Mr. Akapo Adeboye, Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for Niger and Kwara states, disclosed that the authority, through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, had donated about 3,500 life jackets to riverine communities. However, he expressed concern that the jackets were not being used by boat operators, contributing to recurring accidents and fatalities.

 

“Some recipients sold the life jackets instead of using them. Moving forward, we will involve river marshals, emergency response teams, and relevant agencies to ensure compliance and safety on waterways,” Adeboye said.

 

Addressing another major challenge, Hon. Abdullahi Baba Arah, Director-General of NSEMA, represented by Alhaji Salihu Garba, noted that underwater tree stumps pose significant hazards to boat navigation. He urged partners to utilize the dry season to clear waterways and safeguard lives.

 

The meeting drew participation from NEMA, NSEMA, NIWA, Niger-HYPPADEC, Niger State Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Transportation, NSCDC, VIO, FRSC, NOA, and traditional leaders including Sarkin Ruwa and Sarkin Gwata.

 

Isah concluded with a call for collective action: “Let us work together to build resilient communities that are informed, prepared, and equipped to withstand emergencies and boat mishaps.”