In a landmark move to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, on Tuesday 29th April 2025, officially flagged off the distribution of 42,000 life jackets to waterway users across 12 selected riverine states.
The initiative, flagged off at a ceremony in Minna, Niger State, is aimed at curbing the alarming rate of boat mishaps and fatalities in the country’s riverine areas.
Each of the beneficiary states will receive 3,500 life jackets in the first phase of this strategic safety intervention by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
The initiative is one of the most comprehensive federal responses in recent times to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways.
“This event transcends mere ceremony; it embodies our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians who rely daily on our inland waterways,” Oyetola said in his address, emphasizing that the life jackets distribution is a proactive, life-saving response to the recurring boat accidents.
Citing the rising incidence of mishaps due to human error, poor equipment, and non-compliance with safety measures, the Minister called the trend a national emergency and underscored the urgent need for collective action.
He also highlighted the government’s introduction of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations, 2023 — also known as the Waterways Transportation Code — aimed at standardizing operations, enforcing compliance, and creating a more structured environment for investment and safety.
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