WATERWAYS SAFETY:Minister Leads Life Jacket Distribution In Lagos , As NIWA Harps On Zero Mishap In 2025

By Roland Ekama 

 

The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)in collaboration with the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) on Wednesday, May 29, 2025.presented a substantial donation of life jackets to operators as part of measures to ensure safety of lives and properties.

In a significant advancement for water safety and the enhancement of inland water transportation, the donation ceremony took place at LASWA’s headquarters at the Five Cowries Terminal in Lagos, aimed to reinforcing the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government to establish safe and efficient water transport systems nationwide, with a special focus on Lagos State, the busiest waterways hub in Nigeria.

Speaking, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, presided over the handover and distribution of life jackets in Lagos State, marking a significant milestone in the national drive to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Speaking at the event, Minister Oyetola, who was represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, expressed delight in witnessing the initiative, which aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing waterway accidents and fatalities. He commended the Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for its proactive efforts in transforming water transportation in the state, praising the warm reception from the people of Lagos, often referred to as the “Centre of Excellence.”

The Minister noted that the life jacket distribution campaign, currently active in Lagos, follows similar initiatives in Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, and Akwa Ibom States, with plans to extend to other coastal regions in the coming weeks.

He said the campaign aims to foster a culture of safety among communities that rely heavily on water transport for daily activities.

Oyetola highlighted the persistent challenge of boat mishaps across Nigeria, many of which result from neglecting basic safety measures, particularly the use of life jackets. He emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is prioritizing life-saving interventions to end avoidable deaths on Nigerian waters.

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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA),he stressed is a key agency under the Ministry, continues to lead regulatory enforcement and public awareness efforts nationwide.

Given Lagos’s unique waterways characterized by heavy commercial activity and high passenger traffic, Oyetola stressed the critical importance of safety measures in the state. He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, boat operators, and transport unions to champion the safety culture at the grassroots level.

Addressing boat operators and ferry associations, the Minister urged strict adherence to safety protocols, emphasizing the slogan: “No Life Jacket, No Entry!” He reminded all that wearing a life jacket is a vital protective measure, not an inconvenience.

 

 

Oyetola concluded by thanking the people of Lagos State for their support and participation, expressing optimism that the partnership between federal and state authorities will build confidence in the water transport system and save lives.

“Our rivers, creeks, and lagoons sustain livelihoods and should never be scenes of avoidable tragedies. Building a culture of safety that respects and preserves every Lagosian is our collective duty. Eko o ni baje ooo!” he declared.

 

Also Speaking during the donation, Managing Director, NIWA ,Bola Oyebamiji reiterated that federal government commitment to ensure zero mishap in the year 2025.

Oyebamiji maintained that the passengers without life jackets should not be allowed to board any watercrafts, saying that the passage of coastguard bill into law would address some of challenges facing waterways transportation across the country.

The lifejackets donation, he added that is an initiative that highlights the crucial importance of safety in nation’s water transport sector, particularly as we ramp up efforts to unlock the vast economic potential of the blue economy.

General Manager, LASWA, Emmanuel Oluwadamilola affirmed that the life jackets donation strengthens the Agency’s s existing safety initiatives and supports Lagos State’s ongoing campaign to promote the essential use of life jackets among all waterways users.

Emmanuel added that the donation epitomizes the robust partnership between federal and state agencies dedicated to ensuring that Nigeria’s waterways are secure, viable alternatives to road transportation while being user-friendly

The event further showcase a live demonstration on the proper use of life jackets, complemented by an intensive public sensitization drive on water safety, coordinated by LASWA in collaboration with agencies such as NIWA, the Marine Police, and officials from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

A total of 3500 lifejackets were distributed to LASWA management at the exercise.

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