By Thompson Yamput
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola on Wednesday pledged Federal Government’s commitment in ending the unnecessary loss of lives and properties on Nigerian waters.
The Minister gave the pledge during the handing over and distribution of life jackets in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Oyetola, who was represented by Mrs S. Akon, Director, Human Resources, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, said enough is enough of loss of precious lives along the waterways.
He explained that government seriousness could be seen from the distribution of life jackets in Niger and Bayelsa States a few weeks ago and recent handover in Anambra State.
“Our campaign continues simultaneously today in Akwa Ibom and Ogun States.
“This strategic initiative will proceed to Lagos, Delta, Benue, zamfara, and kwara States.
“Our goal is to instil the culture of safety on our waterways, especially in riverine communities where water transport is essential to their daily lives,” he said.
According to him, it’s in alignment with the renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, which have prioritised life-saving interventions to effect change.
He added: “We are committed to ending unnecessary loss of lives on our waters.”
In his keynote address, Gov Umo Eno of A’Ibom State, said that the life jackets distributed represent more than just a piece of safety equipment.
Represented by Dr. Anthony Luke, the Honourable commissioner of Transport, said “the jackets symbolise hope, protection, and the value we place on human life.”
“We, as state governments, are proud to receive this gesture,” he stated.
In his vote of thanks, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), expressed the gratitude of the authority for the distribution and handing over of the life jackets to the states.
Oyebamiji, who was represented by Engr. Fidelis Agbahi General Manager Ports and Environmental Services, said this gesture demonstrates a clear commitment to our waterways safety and security.
The MD commended the effort of the federal ministry of marine and blue economy and also the Akwa Ibom state government for planning and executing the initiative.
He admonished: “Water users should endeavour to use the jackets responsibly during water activities and maintain them properly.”
The event was climaxed with demonstration of how to wear a life jacket by a staff of NIWA.
However, present at the event were the associations of boat operators, boat commuters, and community leaders. (ephemeralnews.com.ng)
