Niger to Arrest and Prosecute Boat Operators Without Life Jackets

Niger State warns boat operators against neglecting life jacket rules after Zumba boat mishap. Arrests and prosecutions to follow non-compliance.

Niger State Government Tightens Safety Measures on Waterways

The Niger State Government has announced strict enforcement measures against boat operators who fail to provide or enforce the use of life jackets for passengers. According to the State Commissioner of Transport, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, defaulters will face arrest and prosecution under new safety directives.

This announcement came during her condolence visit to Guni in Munya Local Government Area following a tragic boat mishap in Zumba that claimed multiple lives.

Life Jackets Distributed Before the Incident

Hajiya Kuta disclosed that the Ministry of Transport had already distributed 150 life jackets to Guni boat operators before the accident. However, she expressed disappointment that many passengers who died in the mishap had refused to wear them.

She urged:

Traditional rulers to sensitize their communities on water safety.
Boat operators to strictly enforce life jacket usage.
Passengers to comply with safety rules to prevent avoidable deaths.

She further stressed that the government will no longer tolerate non-compliance and that operators found violating safety guidelines will face legal consequences.

Condolences from State Officials

Representing Governor Umar Bago, the Commissioner of Lands and Survey, Maurice Magaji, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Mairo Mohammed Mann, delivered separate condolence messages to the bereaved families.

They encouraged the community to accept the loss as destiny but also called for proactive safety measures, including:

Ensuring passengers wear life jackets before boarding.
Clearing undergrowth along waterways to improve navigation safety.

Governor’s Commitment to Safety

Governor Bago’s administration reaffirmed its dedication to protecting lives and property in Niger State. The officials appealed for collaboration from community leaders, boat operators, and stakeholders to reduce incidents of boat accidents.

For more updates on Niger State safety regulations and other local news, visit Androidpols.com.ng. You can also read the National Inland Waterways Authority’s official safety guidelines for detailed information on water transport safety protocols in Nigeria.