By Correspondent in Lagos
A middle aged boat builder, Mr Wale Erejuwa, has built and commissioned a 35-seater boat in recent time in Lagos State with an appealed to Federal and State Governments to support him financially as a morale booster to enable him remain in the business and contribute his quota to the transaction sector in the country.
Erejuwa, who spoke with journalists in Lagos on Tuesday,said he had been in the business of building boats for 32 years, adding that he needed government support for a conducive environment to enhance his operations.
He recalled that he had built more than 40 of the 20-seater boats; 30 of the 10-seater boats; and one of the 35-seater boats, adding that he had successfully showcased the product of his expertise to the world.
“When I discovered that some of the covered boats in used to capsize, I carried out a research and came up with an open boat which stopped the challenge of capsizing.
“Except human errors when someone drinks or rides boat at night which could lead to accidents, boat capsize may as well be a thing of the past in the state.
“However, i need support from government, like providing suitable space for my workshop, availability of chemicals for my work as well as patronage.
“Experience has shown that ferries have been helping in reducing traffic on our roads and with government support, the water transport business will attract over 60 per cent of Lagos residents and contribute to decongesting traffic on roads in the State.
The 35-year old boat builder said he could build catamaran and ship with government support, if he could get more than four hectares of land.
He also pleaded for government’s support to enable him purchase chemicals to assist him to remain in boat-building business.
