President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the recent surge in boat accidents in Niger State and across Nigeria, following a tragic incident that occurred on Tuesday night in Mokwa Local Government Area of the state. The directive, issued in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, calls for urgent action to prevent future accidents and ensure the safety of Nigerians using the waterways.
In his directive, President Tinubu emphasized the need for NIWA to expand its surveillance efforts and enforce safety regulations, particularly against boat operators violating the ban on night sailing. He urged the authority to develop comprehensive strategies to curb the rising number of accidents on the country’s inland waterways.
The President extended his condolences to the families of the victims, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He also commended the efforts of emergency responders and local divers who continue to search for those still missing.
The accident involved a boat carrying around 300 passengers, mostly women and children, which capsized on the Gbajibo River. So far, 150 people have been rescued, and 25 bodies have been recovered from the scene.