The Federal Government has urged state governments to phase out wooden boats and adopt fibre and aluminium alternatives to enhance safety and curb frequent waterway accidents.
In a statement addressing the recent Shagari boat mishap in Sokoto State, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, expressed condolences to victims and families, attributing the tragedy to the persistent use of unsafe wooden vessels.
Oyetola called on states to support federal efforts by investing in modern, non-wooden boats for commercial use.
“Despite our interventions, such as distributing 3,500 life jackets to each riverine state, accidents continue due to the structural flaws of wooden boats, which are outdated for modern water transport,” he said.
The minister highlighted that fibre and aluminium boats are stronger, safer, and more durable, aligning with global standards for inland and coastal transport.
He noted that such investments would save lives and boost economic activity.“While we’ve mandated life jacket use and supplied thousands, safety requires more than just life jackets—it demands safe boats,” Oyetola emphasized.
“I urge state governments to invest in fibre and aluminium boats to ensure a safer, more prosperous future.”
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