Minister Calls for Nationwide Ban on Wooden Boats

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on state governments nationwide to invest in modern fibre and aluminium boats to enhance safety and reduce accidents on Nigeria’s waterways.

Oyetola renewed his appeal for an urgent ban on wooden boats for commercial water transport, highlighting the dangers posed by outdated and unsafe vessels. His statement, issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola, came in the wake of recent boat accidents that claimed several lives, prompting condolences to the families of the victims.

The minister urged waterway users to take personal responsibility for their safety by adhering to basic precautions. He stressed that replacing wooden boats with fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium vessels would greatly improve safety. “Fibre and aluminium boats are more durable, stable, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for commercial operations. They offer better balance and buoyancy, reduce the risk of sudden breakage, and can be equipped with essential safety tools,” Oyetola said.

He also cautioned against night travel due to poor visibility and increased risks and encouraged passengers to always wear approved life jackets. The former Osun State Governor reiterated that no journey is worth taking on overloaded or rickety boats. “Avoid night travel, wear life jackets, and prioritise safety above all else,” he stated, adding that the recurring tragedies highlight the urgent need to address the root causes of waterway accidents in Nigeria.

Oyetola noted that many accidents result from poorly constructed, poorly maintained boats, especially when overloaded or exposed to harsh conditions. “Wooden boats deteriorate quickly in water, leading to cracks, leaks, and eventual collapse. They are unstable, easily capsized, often lack safety features, and are frequently operated without proper regulation, putting passengers at serious risk,” he said.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to waterway safety, the minister highlighted ongoing interventions, including the distribution of 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025 to improve safety awareness. He urged state governments to complement these federal efforts by investing in modern, safe boats and ensuring passengers have access to standard life jackets.

Oyetola emphasised that safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways requires collective action and political commitment at all levels. “Water transport is a key part of our blue economy,” he said. “It must be safe, regulated, and sustainable. Together, we can prevent these avoidable tragedies and protect lives.”

Recent incidents underscore the urgency of the call. In December, six passengers died and four were rescued following a boat accident along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun Water Channel in Lagos.