By correspondent in Minna.
The the state government has donated five 50-seater metal boats to riverine communities in a bid to tackle the frequent boat accidents that have led to the loss of lives and property along the state’s waterways.
The donation, which was presented to beneficiaries in the Wuya community of Gbako Local Government Area, is part of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s initiative to improve inland water transportation safety.
Mallam Abdullberqy Usman Ebbo, Special Adviser to Governor Bago on Digital Media and Strategy, revealed that the boats were delivered by the state’s Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA) in response to community calls for safer water travel.
The new boats aim to replace outdated, often malfunctioning wooden boats that have been the cause of numerous accidents.
“The communities have recognized the risks associated with the old boats, and this intervention is crucial to ensuring the safety of travelers along our waterways,” said Ebbo.
The Commissioner for Transport, Hadiza Kuta, emphasized the need for strict enforcement of water travel regulations and warned that violators would face legal action.
Representatives of the beneficiary communities expressed gratitude for the Governor’s foresight in prioritizing water safety, noting that the new boats would significantly reduce accidents and ensure safer travel for rural residents.
Our correspondent reports that the donation comes in the wake of a tragic boat accident earlier this year, in which over 100 people from Niger State lost their lives when a boat capsized in the Gbajibo community of Mokwa Local Government Area.
Governor Bago’s administration is hopeful that this intervention will drastically reduce water-related disasters and improve the livelihoods of the communities that rely on water transportation.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
