Kogi Reaffirms Commitment To Waterway Safety, Plans Wider Life Jacket Distribution
The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving safety, compliance and regulatory enforcement on the state’s waterways as part of efforts to reduce boat accidents and enhance water transportation.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Atuluku Victor Levi, gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) in Lokoja, where he met with union leaders and other stakeholders to discuss measures aimed at strengthening water transport safety and operational efficiency.
Speaking during the meeting, the commissioner stressed the importance of prioritising the safety of passengers and crew members, noting that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo would continue to strengthen regulatory frameworks and enforce existing safety standards to safeguard lives and property.
He urged boat operators, transport unions and other stakeholders to comply with safety regulations, including the compulsory use of life jackets and other approved safety equipment.
Atuluku said the government’s efforts to reform and reposition the water transportation sector would require sustained collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria.
He added that the state remained committed to developing a safer, more efficient and economically viable water transportation system capable of improving mobility, promoting commerce and enhancing residents’ welfare.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for the Ministry of Transportation and the union to review challenges affecting water transportation in the state and explore practical solutions to improve safety, orderliness and regulatory compliance.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transportation, Baiyegunsi Samuel Taiwo, identified several challenges confronting the sector and called on the union to support government efforts to transform water transportation across the state.
Also speaking, the Officer-in-Charge of the Marine Police, SP Ali Usman, advocated stronger collaboration among the Marine Police, the Maritime Workers Union and other relevant stakeholders to ensure effective enforcement of safety regulations. He also appealed for improved logistics to enhance marine security operations.
Responding on behalf of the union, the State Chairman and Secretary of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Abdullahi Bala Yusuf and Usman Momoh Sani, pledged the union’s continued support for the state’s initiatives and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safety and regulatory compliance on Kogi waterways.
A key outcome of the meeting was discussions on the modalities for distributing life jackets to waterway users as part of ongoing efforts to reduce boat mishaps. Stakeholders said the initiative reflects the Kogi State Government’s commitment to revitalising the transportation sector and ensuring water transport operations comply with national safety standards.
