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,,,,Call for phasing out wooden boats.
By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has presented a five-point demand to the Federal Government, following the tragic boat accident in Niger State last month, which claimed over 50 lives.
The incident involved a merchant boat carrying over 200 passengers, primarily traders, which capsized near Kpata Danbo while en route from Kupa Ebe to Katcha Market. Official reports confirmed 50 fatalities and 24 rescues.
During a press conference in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Tuesday,NAPS urged the Federal Government to implement measures to prevent similar tragedies.
These include phasing out wooden boats in favor of modern alternatives, holding individuals accountable for negligence, and increasing budgetary allocation to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enhance its capacity.
Agada Noah, the National Secretary General of NAPS, emphasized the need for stricter safety regulations, better infrastructure, and heightened awareness campaigns.
He also praised ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to improve water transportation safety.and urged further collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders.
The association called on the National Assembly to legislate for improved funding of the inland waterways sector and demanded grassroots sensitization campaigns to educate citizens on waterway safety.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the preventable nature of many boat accidents caused by human negligence and inadequate infrastructure.
“We must prioritize the safety and well-being of all Nigerians to prevent such losses in the future,”Noah stated.
The NAPS called for swift and decisive actions to ensure such avoidable tragedies do not recur.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
