The federal government, on Friday in Ilorin, donated 1,000 life jackets to residents of Kwara in a bid to prevent death occasioned by the frequent boat mishap in the state.

The minister of marine and blue economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who made the donation, said deaths via boat mishap could be avoided if the people adhere to the rules and principles of wearing their life jackets.

While promising another batch of 2,500 life jackets to be delivered soon, Mr Oyetola warned them to desist from inland water travel without life jackets.

The minister, who was represented by the director, maritime services, Mercy Ilori, said the initiative was a strategic step to make water transport safer and more reliable for all users.

According to the minister, boat mishaps remain a recurring problem but an avoidable tragedy in many parts of the country.

He noted that many had died in the accidents due to poor safety practices, especially the failure to wear life jackets.

He urged all boat and ferry operators to make safety a priority, adding that wearing a life jacket was a responsibility that must be ensured.

“The federal ministry of marine and blue economy is taking practical steps to prevent such losses and ensure that every journey by water is a safe one by using these three core pillars

“Strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023. Sustained public education and sensitisation on safety.

“And provision of life-saving gear, particularly life jackets to waterway users across the country,” the minister said.

In his remarks, Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq lauded President Bola Tinubu for his efforts on ensuring safety for the water transport and for donating 1000 life jackets to Kwara.

Represented by the secretary to the state government, Mamman Jibril, the governor said the gesture was part of the federal government’s efforts to promote safe water travels across riverine communities in Nigeria.

He said the items would be distributed across riverine communities in Patigi, Edu, Baruten, Kaiama, and Moro local governments.

Mr AbdulRazaq implored the benefiting communities and boat operators to ensure that passengers use the jackets regularly.

“We should not keep the jacket at home; we must use it because if we use it, the ministry will be happy with Kwara.

“Let me re-emphasise that we should not keep it at home but use it for our safety,” the governor said.

While thanking Mr president for providing the life jackets, the governor appreciated the ministry for putting in its best to forestall the loss of lives and properties to boat mishaps.

Also, the state commissioner for transport, Aliyu Sabi, said the event underscored the commitment of Mr Tinubu and Mr AbdulRazaq to protecting the lives of the citizens.

“As we all know, life jackets are not just pieces of equipment; they are life-saving devices that can make the difference between life and death,” he said.

(NAN)