The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has rolled out sweeping reforms aimed at ending the recurring tragedies on Nigeria’s rivers and lakes, introducing stricter safety and licensing rules for operators nationwide.
Speaking in Abuja, NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji said the authority is taking decisive steps to enforce order and discipline on the waterways after a disturbing rise in boat accidents in recent months.
Under the new directive, loading and offloading of passengers are now restricted strictly to officially approved jetties and terminals. Oyebamiji warned that boats found operating outside these designated points will face immediate sanctions.
“All commercial vessels must operate only from NIWA-recognized facilities,” he stated. “Every passenger must be provided with and properly wear a life jacket, and all boats must clearly display their identification name and approved loading limits.”
The agency also announced a total ban on unlicensed watercraft, adding that uncertified operators will no longer be allowed to navigate Nigerian waters. The move is part of NIWA’s larger goal to eliminate unsafe practices that have cost many lives.
In recent months, several heartbreaking incidents have underscored the urgency of the reforms:
April 2025: Dozens perished when a heavily loaded boat capsized during a sudden storm on the Niger River in Niger State.
July 2025: A vessel carrying goods and passengers struck a submerged log on the Shiroro River, killing fifteen people, though 26 survived thanks to their life jackets.
August 2025: Overloaded boats in Sokoto State overturned while heading to Goronyo market, resulting in multiple fatalities.