Oyetola pledges an end to loss of lives on Nigerian waters

Adegboyega Oyetola, minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the incessant loss of lives on Nigerian waters.

The minister disclosed this at the handing over and distribution of life jackets in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

Represented by Esifa Akon, director of the Human Resources at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola said the Ministry distributed life jackets in Niger and Bayelsa States a few weeks ago, and recently Anambra State while the campaign continues simultaneously today in Akwa Ibom and Ogun states.

He assured that the strategic initiative will proceed to Lagos, Delta, Benue, zamfara and kwara states.

“Our goal is to instil the culture of safety on our waterways, especially in riverine communities where water transport is essential to their daily lives.

Read also: How Adegboyega Oyetola is transforming Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy

“In alignment with the renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has prioritised life-saving interventions to effect change. We are committed to ending unnecessary loss of lives on our waters,” Oyetola explained.

Delivering his keynote address, Umo Eno, governor of Akwa Ibom state, who was represented by Anthony Luke, commissioner of Transport, said the life jackets represent more than just a piece of safety equipment.

“They symbolise hope, protection and the value we place on human life. We, as state governments are proud to receive this gesture, ” he added.
On his part, Bola Oyebamiji, managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), represented by Fidelis Agbahi, general manager of Ports and Environmental Services at NIWA, expressed the gratitude of the Authority for the distribution and handing over of the life jackets.

He said the gesture demonstrates a clear commitment to the Nigeria’s waterways safety and security.

The NIWA boss lauded the effort of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and that of the Akwa Ibom state government for planning and executing this initiative.

Oyebamiji advised water users to use them responsibly during water activities and maintain them properly.

There was also a demonstration of how to wear a life jacket properly by a staff of the Authority. The event was attended by associations of boat operators, boat commuters, and community leaders.