The Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC) has submitted a memorandum to the recently constituted Committee on the Review of Incessant Boat Mishaps in Nigeria’s Inland Waterways.
The committee, formed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, aims to address safety concerns and administrative inefficiencies within the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
According to a press statement sent to our correspondent by the Head of Research at SEREC, Forward Eugene Nweke, the organization described the establishment of the committee as a timely and critical intervention to curb the frequent accidents plaguing the nation’s inland waterways. The memorandum, informed by firsthand experiences gathered during a research expedition along the Ikorodu-Badagry inland water channels and consultations with local monarchs and community leaders, highlighted key challenges affecting waterway safety and administration.
The organization identified poor dredging as a significant factor limiting the navigability of many waterways. This issue, they noted, not only compromises the safety of commercial boat operations but also stifles the economic potential of inland waterways. SEREC also raised concerns about the management of water hyacinth, which continues to obstruct waterways, posing risks to navigation and operational efficiency. While acknowledging efforts to harvest and process the invasive plant for agricultural purposes, SEREC emphasized the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly management practices.
Variations in water levels, currents, and depths were also highlighted as challenges that affect navigation and safety. SEREC called for a detailed assessment of these topographic issues to inform mitigation strategies. Additionally, the memorandum flagged the capacity and expertise of NIWA’s workforce as a critical factor in the successful implementation of reforms, urging the committee to prioritize workforce training and resource allocation.
The ongoing transition from wooden boats to fiber and aluminum vessels was recognized as a step in the right direction. However, SEREC cautioned that the committee must ensure the new boats meet safety standards while also addressing potential impacts on the workforce.
SEREC proposed several recommendations, including the development of a comprehensive dredging plan, the implementation of a sustainable water hyacinth management strategy, and the provision of training and resources to enhance the capacity of NIWA’s workforce. The center also emphasized the need for region-specific interventions, particularly for the northern and central regions, which have unique geographical and usage patterns.
In addition to these recommendations, SEREC urged the committee to revisit reports and recommendations from previous committees, as these could provide valuable insights and expedite the review process. They also advised the committee to request an extension of its 21-day timeline to one month to ensure a thorough and comprehensive review.
SEREC expressed optimism that the committee’s work, if guided by the outlined recommendations, could significantly reduce accidents and improve the efficiency of Nigeria’s inland waterway transport system. The organization emphasized the maritime sector’s high expectations for the committee’s findings and urged the members to deliver a comprehensive and practicable plan that prioritizes safety, regional dynamics, and environmental sustainability.
