Boat accidents trigger calls for operators’ training

In this piece, ANOZIE EGOLE establishes why the newly constituted committee on boat accidents should focus more on training operators.

Boat accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways have become a growing concern, posing significant threats to the lives, goods, and well-being of its citizens. Despite the vastness of the nation’s water transport system and its critical role in connecting remote areas to urban centres, the issue of boat accidents has been overlooked for too long. The need for the Nigerian government to establish a specialised committee to address boat accidents on the inland waterways is now more urgent than ever.

The nation’s inland waterways have long been a primary mode of transport for millions of Nigerians, especially in the riverine areas of the South-South, South-West, and parts of the North-Central regions. According to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, over 15,000 kilometres of the country’s inland waterways connect about 28 states, serving as an essential lifeline for local trade, commerce, and movement.

Sadly, despite their strategic importance, boat accidents have risen alarmingly, leading to loss of life, injuries, and economic disruption. A report by the National Inland Waterways Authority in 2020 showed that between 2019 and 2020, Nigeria witnessed a staggering 107 boat accidents, resulting in the deaths of over 200 people. These statistics reflect just a fraction of the actual toll, as many accidents go unreported or are underreported, particularly in remote areas.

Causes of boat accidents in Nigeria

Several factors contribute to the rising number of boat accidents in Nigeria, many of which could be mitigated with proper oversight and regulation. Many boats operating in the inland waterways are poorly maintained, with some vessels being operated past their serviceable lifespans. Without regular inspections and repairs, the risk of mechanical failure, which can lead to capsizing or engine malfunction, increases significantly. It has also been observed that many boat accidents result from overloading, where boats carry far more passengers or cargo than they are designed to handle. This compromises the stability of the boat, making it prone to capsizing, especially in rough waters.

Another major cause of boat accidents in recent times is the lack of life jackets. It has been observed that many boats operating on Nigeria’s inland waterways do not have life jackets, fire extinguishers, or other critical safety equipment. This lack of preparedness makes passengers vulnerable in the event of an accident. The lack of formal training for boat operators is another critical factor contributing to the frequency of accidents. Many boat operators, who are often local fishermen or casual workers, lack the necessary knowledge and skills to safely navigate the waters, especially during adverse weather conditions. Nigeria’s inland waterways, particularly in the Niger Delta and other riverine regions, are often affected by environmental challenges such as flooding, strong currents, and poor visibility due to storms. These environmental factors, combined with inadequate safety measures, contribute to the risk of accidents. While various government bodies, including the National Inland Waterways Authority and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, are tasked with overseeing the safety of inland waterways, there is a significant gap in enforcement and monitoring of safety standards. As a result, many boat operators bypass safety regulations without facing consequences.

The human cost of these accidents is not only measured in terms of lives lost but also in terms of the devastating social and economic impact on communities. Families who lose loved ones in these accidents face emotional, financial, and psychological trauma. In many instances, the victims are the primary breadwinners of their families, leading to long-term socio-economic consequences for their dependents. Moreover, survivors of boat accidents often suffer permanent disabilities, which further add to the burden on families and local healthcare systems.

In some cases, boat accidents result in the destruction of valuable goods and property, particularly in cases where the boats were transporting agricultural products, fish, or commercial goods. The ripple effect is felt across local economies, especially in rural areas that rely heavily on the waterways for transport.

In addition to the loss of human life, boat accidents also have a significant economic impact on Nigeria. The World Bank estimates that Nigeria’s inland waterways transport system could contribute up to 10 per cent of the country’s GDP if fully optimised. However, the high frequency of accidents on these waterways discourages investment in the sector and hinders its growth potential. The cost of addressing the aftermath of boat accidents, including medical expenses, loss of goods, and compensation claims, further strains both the public and private sectors. Moreover, the damage to local infrastructure, including landing ports and jetties, adds a financial burden on the government.

The lack of safety and regulation also discourages private sector investment in the sector, which could otherwise foster innovation, create jobs, and enhance the country’s overall transport system.

Government’s intervention

Last week, The PUNCH reported that in a bid to tackle the issue of boat accidents on the nation’s inland waterways, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, inaugurated a special committee on the prevention of boat mishaps in Nigeria.

Announcing the move in a statement, NIWA explained that the event, which was held in Abuja, marked a crucial step in addressing the recurring challenges of boat accidents across the country.

Speaking during the event, Oyetola emphasised the urgent need to stem the tide of tragic boat mishaps.

He added that the committee has been given six weeks to complete its assignment and submit recommendations.

The minister stated that the menace has resulted in significant loss of lives and properties.

Oyetola described the country’s waterways as vital to commerce, transportation, and livelihoods, stressing that their safety and efficiency are paramount to the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

He noted that the establishment of this committee aligns with the 2024 International World Maritime Day theme, ‘Navigating the future: Safety First.’

“Frequent tragic boat mishaps across the country have posed significant challenges, resulting in loss of lives and properties. It is worrisome, and this situation demands urgent intervention.

In response, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, among other initiatives, has instituted this Special Committee to assess the challenges in commercial boat transport operations and bring up proposals to stem this menace. The ministry is convinced that a retrospection is needful. “

“The task before us is daunting, but with an unwavering commitment, we can eliminate boat mishaps and ensure that our waterways remain safe, navigable, and prosperous for generations to come,” Oyetola stated.

He said that the committee, which will be chaired by the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterway Authority, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, and the Deputy Director of Inland Waterways at the Ministry, Adams Office, will serve as Secretary.

In his acceptance speech and on behalf of the committee, Oyebamiji assured the minister of their dedication to delivering on the assignment.

He emphasised that safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways is non-negotiable, adding that NIWA, under the current administration, has been refocused on upholding its mandate without compromise.

Oyebamiji noted that the establishment of the committee represents a critical step in addressing the persistent safety challenges in inland water transport.

Stakeholders speak

Stakeholders believe that the establishment of a specialised committee dedicated to addressing boat accidents on inland waterways is the most effective way to tackle the issue at its core. Such a committee would ensure a coordinated approach to the many challenges faced by Nigeria’s inland waterways, from safety regulations and enforcement to public awareness campaigns.

A member of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Tourists Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria, Mr. Frank Meke, blamed lack of training for the frequent boat accidents on the nation’s inland waterways.

“There are many reasons there are boat accidents. From lack of training, poor training standards of boat captains, and the ignorance of owners of these boats due to cultural issues. Some cultures do not regard life as anything; some cultures believe that because they came from riverine areas, they can always find their way out in case of anything. There are also environmental issues; climate change has come, so the veracity of water these days, particularly during the rainy season, is something that no boat operator should play with. This means that during such a period, there should be a well-guided intelligence in terms of when you must boat and when not to. So, it is very important to understand the weather report; you need to understand the intensity of water,” Meke said.

Meke pointed out that though Nigeria boasts about 3000 kilometres of dredged waterways, the statistics have been eroded over time because Nigeria does not believe in consistent dredging, adding that the country has been inconsistent with the dredging of its waterways.

“Of course, sometimes we also have issues with the dredgers themselves; they leave their equipment while they are dredging; they don’t place them well. So, there are no clear demarcations on where the boats should pass and where they shouldn’t, particularly in busy waterways. Funding also is a part of it because to buy a boat these days is very expensive,” he said.

The Head of Research at Sea Empowerment Research Centre, Mr. Eugene Nweke, posited that some of the rivers and channels for inland waterways transport are not too navigable, occasioned by water draft challenges due to poor dredging activities.

“This is a significant concern, as it not only affects the safety of commercial boat operations but also limits the potential of the inland waterways to contribute to the nation’s economy. Furthermore, the SEREC board wishes to note that the management of water hyacinth is another key challenge that needs to be addressed. While it’s commendable that water hyacinth is being harvested and processed for other agricultural needs, it’s essential to ensure that this is done in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.” Nweke said.

He urged the newly inaugurated committee to consider the impact of water hyacinth on the inland waterways and recommend strategies for its effective management.

“The committee should develop a comprehensive dredging plan to improve the navigability of the inland waterways,” Nweke continued.

A boat passenger, Mr. Johnpaul Ejiogu, advised that one of the committee’s key functions would be to promote and implement safety standards across the sector: “This includes mandating that all boat operators undergo basic safety and navigation training and ensuring that boats are equipped with essential safety gear.”

“The committee could also collaborate with local governments and educational institutions to offer training programs for aspiring boat operators. Another critical responsibility of the committee would be to advocate for the development and maintenance of safe docking stations, landing jetties, and other necessary infrastructure. By prioritising the safety and maintenance of these structures, the committee can help reduce accidents related to poorly designed or deteriorating infrastructure,” Ejiogu said.

Conclusion

The time has come for Nigeria to recognise the pressing need for a specialised committee to address the ongoing crisis of boat accidents on the inland waterways. With lives at stake, a coordinated approach to improving safety standards, infrastructure, and regulations is crucial. By establishing such a committee, Nigeria can make its waterways safer, reduce the economic burden of accidents, and unlock the full potential of its inland waterways as a critical mode of transportation. This step is not just a regulatory measure; it is a moral imperative to protect the lives of millions of Nigerians who rely on these waterways every day.

According to Ejiogu, with proper data collection and accident analysis mechanisms in place, the committee can identify high-risk areas, track trends, and recommend specific interventions.

“This would help policymakers understand the root causes of accidents and guide decisions on infrastructure investment and safety measures. The committee would also play a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of safety on the waterways. Public campaigns targeting boat operators and passengers can encourage a culture of safety, making Nigerians more conscious of the risks involved and the steps they can take to mitigate those risks. Establishing a dedicated committee would also create a platform for collaboration between the various stakeholders involved in the inland waterways sector, including the NIWA, NIMASA, the Nigerian Police, state governments, and private operators. A unified effort will help to create more robust policies and more efficient enforcement,” he said.

Meke, who also sits as a BOT member at the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, lauded the government for coming up with the committee to tackle boat accidents.

“For me, what the government has done is that this is the first time the government is sitting down to say, ‘How do we do. this? Do you know that if we get these things right, I don’t think there would be any need for these coastal highways if we dredge our waterways very well? If we dredge our waterways and consistently keep them clean, we can ferry from Lagos to Akwa-Ibom. You will also take the trailers out of the highway, saving their life span; littoral cities would be created, and it would contribute to the Gross Domestic Product. Nigeria needs to wake up to all this,” Meke advised.