FG urges states to replace wooden boats with safer vessels

To curb recurring waterway accidents, the Federal Government urges states to adopt safer fibre and aluminium boats instead of traditional wooden vessels

The Federal Government has issued a strong appeal to state governments across Nigeria to phase out the use of traditional wooden boats, urging them to adopt modern fibre and aluminium alternatives.

The move is aimed at improving safety on the nation’s waterways and significantly reducing the frequency of tragic accidents that have plagued riverine communities over the years.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made the appeal in a statement expressing profound condolences to the victims and families affected by the recent boat accident in Shagari, Sokoto State.

He described the tragedy as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with continued reliance on unsafe wooden vessels, which remain highly vulnerable to structural failures during commercial and passenger operations.

“The Federal Government is calling on state governments to urgently complement our national efforts by investing in modern, non-wooden boats for commercial and passenger operations in their jurisdictions,” Oyetola said.

“It is imperative that we take decisive steps to prevent future tragedies and protect the lives of citizens who depend on these waterways for travel and commerce.”

The minister observed that, despite ongoing interventions by his ministry—including the recent distribution of 3,500 life jackets to every riverine state—maritime accidents continue to occur.

He attributed this to the inherent weaknesses of wooden boats, which are often overloaded and poorly maintained, making them ill-suited for modern transportation needs.

Highlighting the advantages of fibre and aluminium boats, Oyetola explained that these vessels are structurally stronger, more durable, and adhere to global safety standards for inland and coastal water transport.

“Investing in safer vessels is not only a life-saving measure but also a catalyst for economic development.

“Reliable boats will facilitate trade, tourism, and transportation in riverine areas, contributing to local and national prosperity,” he said.

The minister also reiterated the ministry’s efforts to enforce safety regulations, including the mandatory use of life jackets on all commercial boats.

“While we have supplied thousands of life jackets to riverine states, it is clear that personal safety equipment alone cannot compensate for unsafe vessels,” he noted.

“Life jackets are essential, but they must be paired with structurally sound boats to ensure the safety of passengers and operators alike.”

Oyetola concluded with a call to action for state governments to take proactive measures.

“We urge our state counterparts to deliberately invest in fibre and aluminium boats.

“This is the seed we must plant today to secure a safer, more prosperous tomorrow for all Nigerians who rely on our waterways for their daily livelihoods and economic activities,” he said.