The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), on Wednesday urged boat operators in Lagos state to comply with safety rules in order to prevent accidents on waterways.
Mr Muazu Sambo, the Area Manager of NIWA, Lagos Branch, made the call at a stakeholders meeting in Lagos.
He said that the call became necessary because of the recurrence of boat mishaps on the waterways.
“NIWA is not happy with the mishap happening on waterways that is why we are making every move to prevent the incessant boat accidents.
“Part of the move is to ensure that boat operators comply with safety rules on the waterways,” he said.
Sambo also stressed the importance of a standard lifejackets which he said every boat operator must have on board.
The Area Manager also harped on the need for an orderly sitting arrangement on board, well trained sailors and to brief the passengers on the safety measures that have been put in place.
He pledged his full support for smooth sailing on the waterways to prevent accident and other mishaps on the inland waters.
He advised boat operators to get certificate of competence from Nigerian Maritime and Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) before operating on the waterways.
“Any boat operator operating without this certificate before March 2015 will be sanctioned.
“Heavy fine will be paid by such operators if caught violating the safety rules,” he said.
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