The Federal Government has issued a strong directive to state governments across Nigeria, urging an immediate ban on the use of wooden boats for commercial water transportation. This urgent call follows a series of tragic accidents that have claimed numerous lives on the nation's inland waterways.
Minister Oyetola's Stern Warning on Unsafe Vessels
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made this critical appeal on Sunday, January 11, 2026. In a statement released by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the Minister linked the continued reliance on rickety wooden boats directly to the frequent and fatal accidents occurring in many riverine states.
Oyetola explained that these wooden boats are often poorly constructed and inadequately maintained, making them highly susceptible to structural failure. He highlighted that overloading passengers and facing harsh weather conditions significantly increase the risk of disaster with these outdated vessels.
The Case for Modern Fibre and Aluminium Boats
The Minister stressed that phasing out wooden boats is non-negotiable for improving safety. He advocated for a nationwide shift towards fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium boats for all commercial water transport operations.
According to Oyetola, modern boats made from these materials offer superior safety and durability. Key advantages he listed include:
- Greater durability and resistance to corrosion from constant water exposure.
- Enhanced stability and balance, reducing the risk of capsizing.
- Easier maintenance and longer operational lifespans.
- The ability to be fitted with essential life-saving safety equipment.
"Wooden boats deteriorate quickly, leading to cracks, leakages, and eventual collapse. They lack stability and often have no safety features, putting passengers' lives at serious risk," the Minister stated, condemning the current situation.
Federal Interventions and the Call for State Action
Reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment, Oyetola disclosed ongoing interventions by his Ministry. He specifically mentioned the distribution of 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025 as part of efforts to boost safety consciousness.
However, he lamented that despite these federal efforts, boat mishaps persist due to the continued use of unsafe wooden boats. The Minister emphasized that ensuring waterway safety requires collective action and political will at all government levels.
"We are appealing to state governments to urgently complement federal efforts by investing in modern, non-wooden boats for commercial operations in their states," Oyetola said. He also urged states to provide standard life jackets for all water transport passengers within their domains.
Passenger Responsibility and Safety Measures
Beyond government action, the Minister charged waterway users to take personal responsibility for their safety. He issued a stern warning against night travel due to poor visibility and higher risks. Oyetola also urged all passengers to insist on wearing approved life jackets at all times during any boat journey.
The Minister described the recurring tragedies on Nigeria's waterways as both painful and unacceptable. He underscored that addressing the root cause—the use of unsafe vessels—is an urgent national imperative to prevent further loss of life.
