The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed deep grief over the tragic boat accident that occurred on December 15, 2024.
A wooden boat carrying passengers capsised while crossing the River Benue from Agatu local government area of Benue State to Nasarawa State.
A statement signed by the head of press and public relations at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy,Muhammad Zakari, disclosed that the commercial wooden boat, powered by an outboard engine, had about 70–80 passengers onboard. Reports suggest that the victims were traders returning to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto local government area of Nasarawa State after attending the Ocholonya Market in Agatu local government area of Benue State.
The minister expressed concern over the recurring spate of boat accidents on Nigerian waterways. He emphasised that this incident underscores the urgent need for caution among boat operators and passengers, as well as stricter enforcement of safety measures.
He called for collaboration among states, local governments, community leaders and stakeholders to support the ministry and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in addressing the rising number of boat accidents by prioritising safety measures.
“NIWA’s operational code outlines, among other regulations, the mandatory use of life jackets and the avoidance of boat overloading. Any party found neglecting these regulations and endangering lives must face appropriate fines or legal action as stipulated by law,” he stated.
Preliminary findings indicate that the boat, owned and operated by one Abubakar Muhammed, was en route from the Ocholonya community market to Odenyi when the tragedy occurred. Eyewitness accounts attribute the accident to excessive speed and overloading.
