The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Nigeria, has voiced deep concern over the loss of over 300 lives in waterway accidents in 2023. Despite advocating for increased safety measures, the Institute lamented the recurring tragedies associated with passenger ferries on coastal and inland waterways.
Barrister Mfon Usoro, President of CILT Nigeria and former Director General of NIMASA, disclosed the distressing findings of the Institute’s investigation into boat mishaps.
Usoro revealed that an independent online inquiry by the CILT Nigeria Publicity Committee uncovered the loss of over 300 lives to various boat accidents nationwide in 2023.
“The recent ferry and boat fatalities recorded include incidents such as the tragic deaths of five Nollywood actors and crew in Asaba, Delta State, and three medical students in Calabar, Cross River State,” Usoro stated. “Other incidents involved three passengers in Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos State, eight dead and approximately 100 persons declared missing in Borgu district, Niger State, and eight passengers in Anambra State.”
Usoro attributed the overwhelming causes of these ferry disasters to factors like overloading, failure to use life jackets, adverse weather conditions, human error, sub-standard boats, mechanical failures, inadequate safety measures, absence of navigational aids, and regulatory gaps.
Highlighting the paramount importance of safety at sea and on rivers, Usoro emphasized the significant economic and environmental risks posed by these incidents. While acknowledging the value of inland waterway transportation as an alternative mode of travel,
Usoro underscored the urgent need to address the deficit in safety culture and ensure adherence to safety measures by all parties responsible for water transport safety.
“CILT believes that stakeholders involved in water transport safety must collaborate to enhance the safety consciousness of ferry operators, jetty owners, and waterway users,” Usoro concluded.
