President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to launch a thorough investigation into the recent spate of boat accidents in Niger State and across the country.
This directive comes after a devastating boat accident on Tuesday night in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger, resulting in the loss of lives.
The accident involved a boat carrying approximately 300 people, primarily women and children, which capsized on the Gbajibo River while sailing from the Mundi community.
Rescue efforts saved at least 150 people while 25 bodies have been recovered so far.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commiserated with the families of the victims and prayed for the repose of the souls of the dead.
He expressed gratitude to emergency workers and local divers who are working tirelessly to locate the remaining missing persons.
In addition to the investigation, Tinubu ordered NIWA to expand its surveillance of inland waters to ensure safety and prosecute boat operators violating the ban on night sailing.
“President Bola Tinubu has sent condolences to the Government and people of Niger State over a boat accident which occurred Tuesday night at Mokwa Local Government Area.
“The boat, which was said to be carrying about 300 people, primarily women and children, was sailing on the Gbajibo River from the Mundi community when it capsized.
While at least 150 people were rescued from the scene, 25 bodies have so far been recovered.
“President Tinubu commiserates with the families of the victims and prays for the repose of the souls of the dead.
“The President directs the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the spate of boat accidents in Niger state and across the country and devise modalities to check the trend.
“President Tinubu thanked emergency workers and local divers who were working to find the remaining people,” the statement reads.
