President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep condolences to the government and people of Niger State following a devastating boat accident that occurred on Tuesday night in Mokwa Local Government Area.
This was disclosed in a press statement released on Thursday and signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The boat, carrying approximately 300 people, mostly women and children, capsized on the Gbajibo River while sailing from the Mundi community. Rescue efforts saved at least 150 people, while 25 bodies have been recovered so far.
President Tinubu commiserated with the families of the victims, praying for the souls of the deceased. He directed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the accident and develop strategies to prevent similar incidents.
To prevent similar incidents, President Tinubu directed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to implement key safety measures, including Expanding Surveillance of inland waters, Enforcing the Ban on Night Sailing, and Prosecuting Violating Boat Operators. This move aims to ensure public safety and prevent further accidents on the country’s inland waterways.
The President praised emergency workers and local divers for their tireless efforts in finding the remaining missing persons.
This tragic incident highlights concerns about maritime safety in Nigeria’s inland waterways. The government’s swift response aims to mitigate future risks and ensure the safety of citizens.
The statement read in part, “President Bola Tinubu has sent condolences to the Government and people of Niger State over a boat accident which occurred Tuesday night at Mokwa Local Government Area.
“The boat, which was said to be carrying about 300 people, primarily women and children, was sailing on the Gbajibo River from the Mundi community when it capsized.
“While at least 150 people were rescued from the scene, 25 bodies have so far been recovered.
“President Tinubu commiserates with the families of the victims and prays for the repose of the souls of the dead.
“The President directs the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the spate of boat accidents in Niger state and across the country and devise modalities to check the trend.
“He orders NIWA to expand the scope of its surveillance of inland waters to ensure our people’s safety and prosecute boat operators violating the ban on night sailing.”
