President Bola Tinubu has directed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the alarming increase in boat accidents across Nigeria.
This directive aims to enhance safety measures following the tragic capsizing on October 1, where a boat carrying over 200 passengers to Gbajibo for the Mawlid celebration sank in Mokwa LGA, Niger State.
In his statement, President Tinubu emphasized the need for NIWA to expand its surveillance of inland waters to safeguard the lives of citizens. He also called for the prosecution of boat operators who violate the ban on night sailing, a crucial safety regulation that aims to prevent such disasters.
The incident has prompted rescue operations by the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), which has been working diligently to recover the bodies of victims.
As of Thursday, spokesperson Ibrahim Hussaini reported that the death toll has tragically risen to 36, with 19 bodies recovered from the river. The cause of the accident remains under investigation, while search efforts continue for any remaining passengers.
In a heartfelt message, President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, praying for the repose of their souls and commending the emergency workers and local divers involved in the recovery operations.
