The Federal Government has called on state governments to phase out the use of wooden boats in favour of fibre and aluminium alternatives to improve safety on waterways and reduce recurring accidents.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made the appeal in a statement commiserating with victims and families affected by the recent Shagari boat mishap in Sokoto State. He described the tragedy as a direct consequence of the continued reliance on unsafe wooden vessels.
“The Federal Government is appealing to state governments to urgently complement its efforts by investing in modern, non-wooden boats for commercial operations in their states,” Oyetola said.
The minister noted that despite the ministry’s interventions, including the distribution of 3,500 life jackets to every riverine state—accidents have persisted due to the structural weaknesses of wooden boats, which he stressed are no longer suitable for modern water transport.
According to Oyetola, fibre and aluminium boats are sturdier, safer, and more durable, meeting global standards for inland and coastal transportation. He added that such investments by states would not only save lives but also enhance economic activity.
“Our Ministry has mandated the compulsory use of life jackets, and we have supplied them in thousands to riverine states. But life jackets alone cannot guarantee safety without safe boats,” he said. “I therefore appeal to our state governments to complement the Federal Government’s efforts by deliberately investing in fibre and aluminium boats. This is the seed we must sow today to secure a safer, more prosperous tomorrow.”
