NIWA Allocates N16bn to Address Surge in Waterway Deaths in Nigeria

The Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) plans to spend N16 billion on boat procurement and waterway maintenance in 2022 to combat the increasing number of deaths from boat accidents in Nigeria. The budget increase aims to enhance safety measures and enforcement of regulations to reduce fatalities.

NIWA's budget for 2022 includes allocations for various initiatives such as acquiring security and patrol boats, establishing search and rescue stations, and implementing safety measures nationwide. Despite the significant budget allocation, boat accidents continue to plague the water transport sector, resulting in numerous casualties across states like Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, and others.

The lack of adherence to safety measures, poor enforcement, and human factors contribute to the high death toll in boat accidents. NIWA has initiated efforts to enforce new water transport codes and regulations to improve safety standards and reduce fatalities.