The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, alongside the National Inland Waterways Authority, has trained 75 boat operators from Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states in navigation and safety skills. This three-day programme, held from December 22 to 24, 2025, aims to reduce accidents and boost professionalism on Nigeria's inland waterways. Officials emphasized practical training and ongoing safety measures to prevent mishaps caused by limited operator knowledge.
In a bid to enhance safety on Nigeria's inland waterways, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy partnered with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to conduct a training programme for 75 boat drivers and skippers. The initiative, running from December 22 to 24, 2025, targeted operators from Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states, drawing participants from key associations such as the Maritime Workers Union, the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATAN), and the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN).
The training focused on equipping participants with essential skills for safe boating and navigation, leading to the issuance of certificates. It was informed by recommendations from investigation reports during the tenure of former NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji, underscoring the need for better standards and operator confidence.
At the closing ceremony, Timothy Clement, a representative from NIWA's Lagos Area Office, highlighted the programme's role in curbing accidents often linked to inadequate technical knowledge and experience. He pointed to NIWA's broader efforts, including wreck removal for clearer navigation and sensitisation campaigns along routes like CMS, Ikorodu, Badore, Badagry and Port Novo. "This year alone, NIWA conducted sensitisation exercises two to three times across different jetties. We are encouraging operators to make more of their captains and skippers available for this kind of training. I believe that by this time next year, we will have even more reasons to celebrate improved safety on our waterways," Clement stated.
Lead trainer Dr. Sileola Akinbowale praised the hands-on approach, which included practical sessions at the jetty beyond classroom theory. She commended Minister Adegboyega Oyetola and Oyebamiji for prioritizing sector development. "We did not limit the training to classroom lectures. Participants were taken out for practical sessions at the jetty, which made the programme very effective. It was an all-inclusive training, not just theory," she said.
Pami Ronald, leader of the Ogun State delegation, noted coverage of topics like boat handling, safety procedures, first aid, emergency response, engine maintenance and transport management. Officials assured the programme's continuation to foster sustained improvements in waterway safety.
