The Federal Government (FG) has urged state governments, especially those in the South‑South and South‑East regions, to ban the use of wooden boats on major inland waterways as part of efforts to enhance transportation safety and reduce accidents.
Authorities say that wooden canoes and boats, often used to move passengers and goods, are prone to capsizing and other dangers, particularly during bad weather and on busy water routes. They argued that these boats lack necessary safety features and proper maintenance, making them a significant risk to lives on the nation’s waterways.
The FG’s call follows a series of water transportation accidents that have resulted in loss of lives and cargo, prompting concerns over inadequate regulation, poor safety enforcement, and the need for modern, safer alternatives.
Under the proposed recommendation, state governments would work with agencies like the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to implement stricter safety standards, phase out unsafe wooden boats, and promote the use of more secure vessels with approved safety equipment.
Officials also highlighted the importance of enforcing life jacket use, regular vessel maintenance checks, and proper licensing for boat operators to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The Federal Government emphasised that the ban and related safety measures are intended to protect lives, boost confidence in water transportation, and reduce preventable tragedies on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
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