The Federal Government, through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has announced a ban on all unauthorised boat loading points across the country as part of fresh measures to improve safety on Nigeria’s waterways.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, NIWA’s Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, said that no commercial passenger boat would be allowed to load from any location that is not officially recognised and registered by the authority.

“All commercial boat operators must provide and enforce the use of life jackets on boats at all times,” Oyebamiji stressed. He added that boats must clearly display their names and load lines, while all unlicensed boats and watercraft would be removed from waterways.

To strengthen safety enforcement, NIWA has expanded its team of water marshals from 80 to 350 personnel, who will ensure strict compliance with the “No Life Jacket, No Boarding” rule and provide safety tips before departure. Passenger manifests have also been introduced at registered jetties and loading points to keep proper records of travellers.

Oyebamiji further revealed that NIWA is working to clear waterways of aquatic waste, wrecks, and logs that pose risks to navigation. The authority has also installed marine navigational buoys, conducted hydrographic surveys, and intensified the training of boat operators.

He also called for the urgent passage of the Coastal Guards Bill, which, according to him, would give legal backing to stronger enforcement and reduce the frequent boat mishaps recorded on Nigeria’s waterways.

With these measures, NIWA says it is committed to making the country’s waterways safer and more reliable for passengers and operators alike.