Following a tragic boat mishap on the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, which claimed multiple lives, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called for urgent reforms to improve waterway safety.
The accident involved passengers traveling to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State, many of whom were women, petty traders, and artisans.
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah in a statement quoted the Governor to have expressed profound sadness over the incident and emphasized the pressing need for enhanced safety measures on Nigeria’s waterways to prevent future tragedies.
“This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for safer water transportation. We must act swiftly to ensure that our rivers are not death traps but safe routes for those who rely on them for their livelihoods,” Ododo said.
He commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its swift response in search and rescue operations but stressed the importance of strengthening regulations, enforcing safety protocols, and ensuring vessels meet basic safety standards.
The Governor also called for a multi-agency collaboration to improve emergency response capabilities and ensure that both travelers and goods are transported under safer conditions.
“Inter-agency cooperation is crucial. We need a comprehensive approach to waterway safety that includes regulation, enforcement, and rapid emergency response,” he added.
NIWA confirmed the accident on Friday, which led to fatalities and injuries among traders traveling from Kogi State. Governor Ododo pledged his administration’s continued support for the victims and reiterated his commitment to working with relevant authorities to improve water transportation safety.