House Committee Vows to End Boat Mishaps on Nigeria’s Waterways

House Committee Vows to End Boat Mishaps on Nigeria’s Waterways

By Matthew Eloyi

Hon. Pst. Ojotu Ojema, the Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on National Inland Waterways, has pledged the commitment of the Green Chamber to put an end to the recurring boat mishaps that have plagued Nigeria’s waterways.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the House Standing Committee on National Inland Waterways held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Ojema expressed his determination to address this pressing issue. He acknowledged that the country had witnessed numerous boat mishaps, leading to the loss of many lives.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Olikita Ekani, Ojema emphasized that the committee’s maiden meeting marked the official commencement of its activities. He outlined his strategy, which involves enacting effective legislation and maintaining strict oversight of relevant agencies within the committee’s jurisdiction.

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Furthermore, Ojema highlighted that the committee would exercise oversight over the Ministry of Blue Economy and other related parastatals. He assured his colleagues that his leadership would provide unwavering support to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and other key stakeholders in the maritime sector, with the goal of making the nation’s waterways safer and more navigable.

During the meeting, Hon. Martins Esin, a member of the committee representing the PDP from Akwa-Ibom, emphasized the enormity of the responsibility placed on the committee. He pointed out the challenges faced by NIWA in generating revenue as a government agency and stressed that this issue should be addressed during the committee’s interactions with the establishment.

Another committee member, Hon. Lanre Oladebo of the PDP from Osun, stressed the need for government agencies to enforce the use of life jackets in water transportation. He underscored the importance of ensuring safety measures are adhered to rigorously to prevent further mishaps on the country’s waterways.

With a united commitment and legislative action, the House Committee on National Inland Waterways aims to bring an end to the tragic boat mishaps that have plagued Nigeria and ensure safer and more secure water transportation for all.