By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Lokoja Area Manager, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Titus Adoga, has expressed concern over the safety of boat passengers and goods in Lokoja LGA riverine communities and stressed the need for a robust synergy among all stakeholders to enhance safety of lives and property.
Consequently, he appealed to traditional rulers to work in synergy with the Authority to intensify enforcement and regulatory oversight based on the Waterways Safety Code, enacted to ensure the safety and security on the waterways.
Adoga made the appeal when the Rogan of Eggan, HRH Muhammed Umar Alhassan paid him a thank-you visit in his office in Lokoja on Friday.
He also canvassed the need for the various security agencies, mostly the Navy, Marine Police, and Civil Defense to partner with the parastatal in the area of law enforcement, as a way of enhancing their presence and response capabilities while dealing with defaulters of the safety codes.
“To our Royal Highness, I request your continued support and advocacy for water safety. Market Women Association, your role in disseminating safety information is crucial. Press Men, your coverage will help raise awareness and promote compliance”.
“Let us join forces to create a culture of safety on our waterways, preventing tragedies, protecting the environment, and ensuring prosperity for generations to come”.
“We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to make our waterways safe, secure, and sustainable”.
“Let us commit to a culture of safety, responsibility, and accountability. Let us join hands to prevent accidents, protect lives, and preserve the environment”.
“Together, we can make a difference. Together, we will make our waterways a beacon of safety and prosperity for all”, he concluded.
While donating authentic life jackets to the Rogan of Eggan, the NIWA Area Manager also seized the opportunity to differentiate between fake or sub-standard life jackets and standard ones.
Responding, the Rogan of Eggan, Muhammed Umar Alhassan, commended the Kogi State governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for sending a delegation to the affected communities, led by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, RT. Hon Aliyu Umar Yusuf.
He further commended NIWA for its quick response to the mishap, lamenting that despite persistent efforts to sensitize boat operators on safety measures and conduct training programs, this unfortunate incident underscores the ongoing challenge posed by some boat operators’ disregard for NIWA’s safety guidelines.
The royal father called on NIWA to, as a matter of oversight, ensure that people who board boats must use life jackets.”
Recall that the NIWA Area Manager also hald an interactive session with the Maiyaki of Kupa, Pherm. Dauda Kabir Isah yesterday.
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