The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Ganaja Unit, Kogi State, has called on the state government, political officeholders, and corporate organisations to assist in providing life jackets for passengers using the state’s waterways.
Speaking in an interview with The Guardian at his office in Ganaja, Lokoja, the unit chairman, Mr. Ishiaka Aliyu Musa, said the appeal was necessitated by the recent boat mishaps along the state’s waterways, particularly the November 28, 2024, tragedy, where over 20 passengers lost their lives.
Lack of Life Jackets Contributing to Fatalities
Musa noted that most of the victims in the November accident were not wearing life jackets, while survivors had theirs on, indicating that the lack of safety gear played a major role in the fatalities.
He attributed the problem to the high cost of life jackets, which range between N10,000 and N20,000, making them unaffordable for many passengers.
“The major challenge is that most people who travel on the waterways cannot afford the cost of a life jacket. It is the primary responsibility of every passenger to provide a life jacket as personal property and wear it anytime they want to board a boat. Unfortunately, many cannot afford that cost,” Musa explained.
Appeal to Government and Corporate Bodies
The union chairman urged Governor Usman Ododo, lawmakers, and local government officials to consider bulk purchases of life jackets for free distribution, particularly to market women and youths who frequently use the waterways.
He also called on humanitarian organisations, such as the Red Cross, and corporate entities to support the initiative as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR).
“This is a humanitarian call for the protection of our people. We also expect corporate individuals and organisations to take the issue of life jackets seriously and donate towards it,” Musa added.
Commendation for NIWA’s Efforts
Musa commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its consistent donation of life jackets, despite it not being their primary responsibility.
He assured that with an adequate supply of life jackets, the Maritime Workers Union would collaborate with NIWA to enforce their mandatory use by all passengers on the waterways, ensuring safety and reducing the risk of fatalities.