Lagos: The Federal Government, through the Ministry for Marine and Blue Economy, donated 3,500 lifejackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) on Wednesday. This initiative is part of the administration’s efforts to promote safety on waterways, as noted by Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oyetola, represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Marine Services at the Federal Ministry, highlighted that the lifejackets are intended for communities where water transport is essential. He emphasized that similar campaigns have been conducted in Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, and Akwa Ibom states, with plans to extend to other littoral states.
Oyetola addressed the challenges posed by boat crashes and related fatalities, which he described as preventable tragedies often resulting from neglected safety measures, such as the use of lifejackets. The ministry’s commitment aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to reduce avoidable waterway fatalities through enforcement, education, and the provision of safety equipment.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is leading efforts in regulation, compliance, and education along the inland waterways. Collaboration with state and local governments is crucial for the safety campaign’s success, urging community leaders to promote safety at the grassroots level.
Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, lauded NIWA’s achievements and emphasized the initiative’s role in enhancing safety culture, which provides assurance for waterway users.
Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, NIWA Managing Director, stressed the collective responsibility for safety, advocating for the passage of the Coast Guard Bill to bolster waterway security. He assured efforts towards achieving zero mishaps on the waterways.
Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, LASWA General Manager, expressed gratitude for the Federal Government’s commitment to safer waterways. He noted the phased distribution of lifejackets and the importance of their use, indicating plans to enforce lifejacket usage through legislation.
