Stakeholders in the maritime and inland waterway sectors have called on the Federal and State Governments to prioritize safety awareness campaigns and grassroots sensitization to reduce accidents on Nigerian waterways.

In a statement, they emphasized the need for increased budgetary allocation to the maritime sector, urging the National Assembly to legislate on funding for safety infrastructure, emergency response equipment, and manpower development.

The stakeholders also commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and NIWA Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, for implementing Nigeria’s Water Transportation Code and strengthening waterways surveillance to enforce safety regulations.

They called for the replacement of wooden boats with modern ones, increased support for the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and accountability for negligence or breaches of safety precautions.

The statement urged state governors to support NIWA’s efforts, legislators to collaborate with water transporters, and media organizations to enhance public awareness of waterways safety.

The stakeholders reiterated their commitment to advocating for safer waterways and proactive measures to prevent further tragedies.