The Niger State government as part of efforts to reduce loss of lives from boat mishap on waterways in the state, which has so far claimed 28 lives in three incidents, has purchased 3000 life jackets for use by water travellers.
The Commissioner of Transport, Engr. Ibrahim Panti who made the disclosure said the state government will from 2019, make the use of life jackets by water travellers, compulsory.
He said, “As part of efforts to reduce casualties during boat mishaps, 3,000 life jackets were purchased and launched for use by boat travellers. Wearing of such life-saving gear would soon become compulsory for all water travellers.”
Panti added that a 12-seater watercraft with 7.5 horse power engine has been purchased for surveillance, rescue and patrol in case of any eventuality in the waterways.
