The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to improving safety and rescue operations across Nigeria’s waterways following a recent boat mishap in Sokoto State, which saw a quick response from rescue agencies.

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Mohammed Bello Goronyo, gave this assurance during an interactive meeting with the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamji, and senior officials of the agency. The Minister praised NIWA and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for their timely intervention, noting that their coordinated rescue efforts saved several lives and ensured the prompt recovery of victims.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda, observing that the administration’s vision and policy direction continue to create a supportive framework for enhanced safety, infrastructure, and service delivery across critical sectors, including water transportation. Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, Minister Goronyo emphasized that such engagements should be sustained as an ongoing platform for collaboration rather than a one-off meeting.

Earlier in his remarks, NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Oyebamji, thanked the Honourable Minister for his leadership and assured that the agency would continue to strengthen its operations to protect lives and improve navigation safety on the waterways. He announced that the Federal Government is set to receive five new boats in the coming months, including one aluminum and one iron boat designated for deployment to Sokoto State.

He underscored that the Federal Government remains fully dedicated to providing the necessary infrastructure, equipment, and policies to prevent casualties and ensure safe, efficient, and secure inland water transport across the nation.