217
Daniel Adaji
The Federal Government on Friday distributed 3,500 life jackets to water transport users in Bayelsa State, reinforcing its commitment to safer waterways and reducing deaths from boat mishaps.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, led the distribution in Yenagoa, describing the initiative as “strategic, proactive, and long overdue.”
He said the campaign is part of the ministry’s first phase of life jacket distribution across 12 coastal and riverine states.
“What we are doing here today is saving lives. It is that simple. With these life jackets, we are empowering our waterways users — fishermen, traders, students, and transport operators — with the basic tools to survive and be safe,” Oyetola said.
The event is part of a nationwide initiative to tackle rising cases of boat accidents and promote safety across Nigeria’s inland waterways. The Bayelsa event follows a similar rollout in Minna, Niger State, on April 29.
Highlighting Bayelsa’s dense river network and maritime potential, the Minister said the state was a clear priority in the distribution exercise.
He praised Governor Douye Diri for aligning with federal efforts and commended the state’s creation of a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Oyetola also lauded the Agge Deep Seaport project, calling it “transformative and visionary.” He said the port will unlock economic opportunities for the South-South region by easing port congestion, attracting investment, and creating jobs.
“The Federal Government remains fully committed to its realization,” he added.
Oyetola urged passengers and boat operators to wear life jackets at all times. “They are not for decoration — they are for your protection. Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.
Governor Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry. He also emphasized the importance of sustained public education on water safety.
“Education about safety on the waterways must be sustained if we are to reduce the tragic loss of lives from boat mishaps,” Diri said.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, said the initiative was part of urgent relief efforts to address safety concerns on waterways. He reiterated the Minister’s appeal for the consistent use of life jackets.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, law enforcement agencies, maritime workers, and community leaders.