No fewer than 300 lives were lost to boat mishaps across the country in 2023, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), has disclosed.
CILT’s President, Barr. Mfon Usoro, made this known in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP on Thursday where he identified factors responsible for the accidents.
In the statement titled, “Passengers Deaths In Ferry Incidents: CILT Nigeria Urges Adoption Of Safety Culture for Water Transport,” Usoro said safety of lives and property at sea or rivers is of paramount concern to everyone, especially in the light of recurring boat mishaps.
Usoro said the mishaps have resulted in tragic loss of lives even as it posed significant economic and environmental risks.
“An independent online investigation by the CILT, Nigeria Publicity Committee revealed that over 300 lives were lost to different boat accidents across the country in 2023.
“Recent ferry and boat fatalities recorded include 5 Nollywood actors and crew in Asaba, Delta State; 3 medical students in Calabar, Cross River State, 3 passengers in Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos State, 8 dead and estimated 100 persons declared missing in Borgu district, Niger State, 8 passengers in Anambra State.
“Overwhelming cause of the ferry disasters were the occurrence of one or a combination of the following factors: overloading, non-use of lifejackets, adverse weather conditions, human error, sub-standard boats and ferries, mechanical failures like engine breakdowns, inadequate safety measures, absence of navigational aids, non-availability of search and rescue services and regulatory gaps,” Usoro said.
He expressed sadness of the institute to frequent loss of lives associated with passenger ferries in coastal and inland waterways.
“While we support the use of inland waterways transports as an alternative and viable mode of transportation, the incessant ferry related incidents resulting in fatalities have prompted a closer look at the deficit in safety culture and non-adherence to safety measures by the parties responsible for safety in our waters.
“Safety of lives and property at sea/rivers is of paramount concern to everyone, especially in the light of recurring boat mishaps. These incidents not only result in tragic loss of lives but also pose significant economic and environmental risks,” the CILT said.
The institute, however, charged government agencies responsible for regulating nations waterways to improve safety consciousness of ferry operators, jetty owners and persons that use waterways transport.
“The pervasive poor safety culture has permeated our inland waterways transport system. The struggle for turf among government agencies on who oversees what constitutes a major impediment to effective monitoring and enforcement of the applicable safety laws and regulations. Even those with knowledge of what should be done seem paralysed by the uncertainties surrounding areas of operation.
“CILT is of the opinion that all stakeholders that constitute the “circle of responsibility” in safety of water transport must work in collaboration to improve safety consciousness of ferry operators, jetty owners and persons that use waterways transport,” Usoro said.
As part of measures to reduce loss of lives and property in waterways, CILT urged the introduction where there is none, and effective compliance with safety measures.
“While the pursuit of safety has cost implications, the consequences of neglecting best practices for safety at sea are far more costly and irreversible. By embracing a safety-first mind-set, we not only safeguard lives and property but also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of maritime transportation.
CILT recognises the imperative of fostering a culture of safety across all modes of transport including ferry transport.
“Through advocacy and collaboration with regulatory agencies, users of water transport and local communities, CILT aims to instil a resolute commitment to safety practices by boat operators and passengers.
“In the ever-changing landscape of sea travel, let us navigate the waves with caution, respect, and unwavering commitment to promote the safety and well-being of all who journey across the waters,” Usoro said.
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