The National Inland Waterways Authority has commenced sensitisation on disaster prevention, safety measures, use of engine boats and life jackets in the riverine communities of Sokoto State.

The NIWA Area Manager in charge of Sokoto, Zamfara and Katsina states, Bello Bala, said on Wednesday that the effort was to combat recurrence of accidents in the country.

Mr Bala said an engagement was conducted at Dundaye community in the Wamakko Local Government Area of the state following a boat accident where about 19 persons died.

He said the communities were being educated on the ‘Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation Code,’ dangers of overloading and other best practices for safe travel on waterways.

He highlighted that the common causes of marine accidents included speeding, overloading, night time operations without proper lighting, and transporting passengers without life jackets.

Mr Bala urged boat drivers to adhere to safety regulations to minimise such accidents.

According to him, the Federal Government has introduced a new ‘Waterways Code,’ which bans night sailing and limits boat operations to the hours restricted sailing to daytime only.

He said, “We will organise a workshop for stakeholders, government officials and members of riverine communities to discuss waterways and other divers’ issues. The Managing Director of NIWA, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, is working tirelessly on the provision of life jackets and new boat engines to riverine communities through the 26 NIWA area offices. He ensures sensitisation exercises for seamless and safe transportation on the nation’s waterways.’’

He added that during the engagement, the District Head of Gidan Bubu in Dundaye, Muhammad Bello, expressed excitement over the interactive session.

He further appealed to community members to cooperate with NIWA on safeguarding lives and ensuring best water transportation practices.

(NAN)