The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has expressed deep sympathy with the Kogi State Government and the families affected by the tragic boat accident in Kupa Ebbe Village, Kupa South Local Government Area of Kogi State. The unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, November 28, 2024, leaving several families in mourning.
In a press statement issued on November 30, 2024, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. “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,” Oyetola stated.
The Minister commended the swift response by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Kogi State Government, which led to the rescue of some survivors. He, however, emphasized the importance of enforcing NIWA’s Waterways Transportation Code to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Oyetola called on NIWA to intensify its efforts in ensuring strict compliance with the Code and holding violators accountable. He also urged boat operators, as well as traditional and community leaders, to discourage nighttime boat operations, highlighting the significant risks associated with such practices.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, to ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s waterways. The Ministry is working closely with Kogi State authorities, NIWA, and other stakeholders to enhance safety measures and reduce the risk of accidents across the country’s waterways.
The Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, Muhammad Tahir Zakari, noted that the government alone cannot achieve safer waterways. He called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to ensure compliance with safety protocols and prevent further loss of lives.
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