Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged the National Inland Waterways Authority to enforce compliance with its Waterways Transportation Code and prosecute offenders.
Oyetola made this call in a statement released on Saturday, signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Muhammad Zakari.
He also expressed his condolences to the Kogi State Government, the families, and the victims involved in the recent tragic boat accident in Kupa Ebbe Village, Kupa South Local Government Area of the state.
It was reported that on Friday, a merchant boat capsized in the waters of Ebe Community, Kupa South Local Government Area, Kogi State.
Speaking further, Oyetola reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring safe operations on the waterways.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this unfortunate incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I am charging NIWA to enforce compliance with its Waterways Transportation Code and prosecute offenders,” Oyetola said.
According to him, the ministry is not only collaborating with the Kogi State Government but also with all states and relevant stakeholders to mitigate the risk of further casualties along the waterways.
Oyetola commended the swift response of NIWA and the Kogi State Government, which led to the rescue of some survivors.
He also called on boat operators and community leaders to ensure their communities refrain from undertaking boat rides between dusk and dawn.
Oyetola emphasised that the government alone cannot drive this process entirely.
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