The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola CON, has expressed the commitment of the federal government in ending the unnecessary loss of lives from boat mishaps on Nigerian inland waterways.
Oyetola disclosed this at the handing over and distribution of life jackets in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, recently.
Represented by Mrs. Esifa Akon, the Director of the Human Resources Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Minister said; “following the distribution of life jackets in Niger and Bayelsa States a few weeks ago and recent handover in Anambra State our campaign continues simultaneously today in Akwa Ibom and Ogun States.
“This strategic initiative will proceed to Lagos, Delta, Benue, Zamfara, and Kwara States. Our goal is to instil the culture of safety on our waterways, especially in riverine communities where water transport is essential to their daily lives.”
According to him, these efforts are in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has prioritised life-saving interventions to effect change.
“We are wholly committed to ending unnecessary loss of lives on our waters,” the Minister posited.
Delivering his keynote address, His Excellency, Umo Eno, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State state, who represented by Dr. Anthony Luke, the State Commissioner of Transport, said the life jackets represent more than just a piece of safety equipment.
“These life-jackets symbolise hope, protection, and the value we place on human life. As a state government, we are proud to receive this gesture,” he remarked.
In his vote of thanks, Mr Bola Oyebamiji FCIB, the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), represented by Engr. Fidelis Agbahi, NIWA General Manager, Ports and Environmental Services, expressed the gratitude of the Authority for the distribution and handing over of the life jackets.
The NIWA boss said this gesture demonstrates a clear commitment to our waterways safety and security, even as he appreciated the effort of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and also the Akwa Ibom state government for planning and executing the initiative.
Mr. Oyebamiji equally advised water users to use the life jackets responsibly during water activities and maintain them properly.
The event also featured a demonstration of how to wear a life jacket by a staff of the Authority as the rich delegation including; associations of boat operators, boat commuters, and community leaders, benefitted from the exercise.
