According to CILT Nigeria, boat accidents claimed 300 lives by 2023

The Nigerian Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport has voiced its dissatisfaction with the regular deaths linked to passenger ferries on inland and coastal waterways, while simultaneously urging users and stakeholders to adopt more safety-conscious practices.

In a statement, Barrister Mfon Usoro, President of CILT Nigeria, revealed that the institution committee’s investigation into the frequent boat accidents in Nigeria revealed that more than 300 lives were lost on the country’s waterways in 2023.

Usoro, a former head of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, restated, “More than 300 lives were lost to various boat accidents around the country, according to an impartial internet investigation launched by the CILT, Nigeria Publicity Committee.

Giving a vivid explanation on the mishaps in the nation’s stated ”Recent ferry and boat fatalities recorded include: 5 Nollywood actors and crew in Asaba, Delta State; 3 medical students in Calabar, Cross River State, 3 passengers in Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos State, 8 dead and estimated 100 persons declared missing in Borgu district, Niger State, 8 passengers in Anambra State.

“Overwhelming cause of the ferry disasters were the occurrence of one or a combination of the following factors: overloading, non-use of lifejackets, adverse weather conditions, human error, sub-standard boats and ferries, mechanical failures like engine breakdowns, inadequate safety measures, absence of navigational aids, non-availability of search and rescue services and regulatory gaps.,”She highlighted .

Usoro maintained that safety of lives and property at sea/rivers is of paramount concern to everyone, especially in the light of recurring boat mishaps.

According to her, the incidents not only result in tragic loss of lives but also pose significant economic and environmental risks.

The CILT boss stated that “While we support the use of inland waterways, is saddened by the frequent loss of lives associated with passenger ferries in our coastal and inland waterways.

“While we support the use of inland waterways transports as an alternative and viable mode of transportation, the incessant ferry related incidents resulting in fatalities has prompted a closer look at the deficit in safety culture and non-adherence to safety measures by the parties responsible for safety in our waters.

Usoro who was a former Secretary,Abuja MoU, noted that CILT is of the opinion that all stakeholders that constitute the “circle of responsibility” in safety of water transport must work in collaboration to improve safety consciousness of ferry operators, jetty owners and persons that use waterways transport.