FG asks states to kiss good-bye to wooden boats

-Special Report-

Federal Government Urges States to Phase Out Wooden Boats in Nigeria

In a decisive move aimed at enhancing safety across Nigeria’s waterways, the Federal Government has called on state governments, particularly those with significant riverine populations, to phase out the use of wooden boats in favor of modern alternatives. 

This directive was issued by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, following a tragic boat accident in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State that claimed multiple lives.

The minister, in a statement released through his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families. He emphasized that the recurring loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways is both painful and preventable. According to Oyetola, the widespread use of wooden boats, many of which are structurally compromised and ill-suited for modern commercial operations, has been a major contributor to these tragedies.

Despite recent federal interventions, including the nationwide distribution of 3,500 life jackets to each riverine state, boat mishaps continue to occur. The minister stressed that life jackets alone cannot guarantee safety if the vessels themselves are unsafe. He explained that wooden boats are increasingly unable to withstand the scale of haulage and overloading they are subjected to, making them more prone to accidents.

Oyetola advocated for the adoption of fibre and aluminium boats, which he described as sturdier, safer, and more durable. These vessels, he noted, meet global standards for inland and coastal waterway transport and represent a strategic investment in both public safety and economic development. He urged state governments to complement federal efforts by deliberately investing in these modern boats, framing the initiative as a life-saving and economically sound decision.

The minister also highlighted the broader implications for Nigeria’s blue economy, which he described as one of the country’s most promising growth frontiers. Water transport, he argued, holds immense potential for easing pressure on road infrastructure, boosting commerce, and unlocking new economic opportunities. However, he warned that continued reliance on outdated and unsafe vessels could erode public confidence in waterways as a viable mode of transport.

In closing, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving waterway safety through stronger regulation, compliance enforcement, and collaboration with state governments, private investors, and boat manufacturers. Oyetola’s message was clear: “The time for action is now. Together, let us consign wooden boats to history and chart a safer course for our people.”