In a bid to enhance safety and regulation in water transport, the Niger State Government plans to establish a Standing Committee on Inland Waterways, dedicated to enforcing stringent water transport protocols across the state.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, popularly known as the Farmer Governor, revealed this pivotal decision during a courtesy visit by Bashir Idris Garba, the Zonal Director for North Central Nigeria at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and his delegation at the Government House in Minna.
Underlining the significance of mitigating boat mishaps, floods, and banditry, Governor Bago stressed the urgency of curbing incidents of overloading, a primary cause of boat accidents in the region.
The proposed Standing Committee will synergize with the existing department overseeing boat mishaps under the Ministry of Transportation, aiming for robust regulation and oversight of water transportation in Niger State.
Governor Bago highlighted substantial strides in combating banditry, crediting collaborative efforts involving NEMA, HYPPADEC, and other stakeholders in relocating vulnerable communities from flood-prone areas to safer zones.
Expressing gratitude for NEMA’s national contributions, Governor Bago reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative efforts with NEMA, ensuring the safeguarding of riverbanks and the welfare of water transport users.
During the visit, Bashir Idris Garga, the Zonal Director for North Central NEMA, underscored the agency’s commitment to streamlining operations and improving emergency response, especially in flood and mishap-prone areas like Niger State.
In addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Niger State, particularly flooding, banditry, and waterway mishaps, plans for a dedicated workshop were announced, aiming to equip stakeholders with strategies for effective disaster management.
