The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has issued a safety and security alert, urging Nigerians to prioritize safety while using the nation’s inland waterways during the festive season. In a statement released by its management, NIWA emphasized the critical need for strict adherence to the Transportation Code, 2023, which has been gazetted and will be rigorously enforced to ensure safe water transportation.
NIWA outlined a series of safety guidelines for boat operators and passengers. These include prohibiting the overloading of boats beyond approved limits and mandating the provision of lifejackets for all passengers at no cost. Additionally, the Authority has banned the consumption of alcohol and other prohibited substances before or during boat rides.
To further enhance safety, NIWA has made it compulsory for passenger manifests to be completed and verified before departure. Operators must also conduct a safety briefing before setting sail. Operations on the waterways are restricted to daylight hours, with a strict ban on nighttime travel and a curfew for boat operations set at 6:00 PM.
The Authority also cautioned against activities that could destabilize boats in motion and reiterated that all passengers must wear lifejackets while onboard. It warned that any assault or attack on NIWA officers or Water Marshals performing their duties would be met with severe consequences.
To bolster emergency response capabilities, NIWA has placed its operational bases on high alert and provided two emergency response lines—07039748740 and 08059543364—for the public.
NIWA called on Nigerians to comply with these safety measures to prevent avoidable tragedies during the festive period. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and secure waterways for all users, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining safety.