The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the boat accident in Benue State that claimed 11 lives, as part of efforts to determine its cause and strengthen safety on inland waterways.
The bureau’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., led a team of investigators on an on-the-spot safety assessment visit to Wadata along the River Benue.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe.
According to the statement, the visit, carried out on Wednesday, is aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, gathering first-hand information from affected communities and stakeholders, and improving safety measures on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
The NSIB also noted that Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, commended the bureau’s swift response and called for a stronger and more sustained presence of the agency in the state to support safety advocacy and risk-reduction efforts along the River Benue.
Responding, Badeh reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to working with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators to enhance transport safety across the country.
“The NSIB welcomes every opportunity to collaborate with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators in advancing transport safety,” he said.
“We remain committed to exploring practical avenues for institutionalising safer navigation on the River Benue and across Nigeria’s inland waterways,” he added.
Speaking during a media briefing, Badeh expressed condolences to the Benue State Government and families of the victims, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the need for stricter adherence to safety measures.
“Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many,” he said.
He noted that while accidents may occur under different circumstances, many are preventable through stronger safety awareness, responsible operations, and improved collaboration among stakeholders.
Badeh explained that the visit was not only to investigate the cause of the accident but also to engage directly with communities that depend on waterways for their daily livelihoods.
“We are here to listen, learn, and engage directly with those who operate and use these waterways. Safety is a shared responsibility,” he said.
The NSIB team later visited Wadata, where they met with community leaders, residents, boat operators, and representatives of the Boat Operators Association.
The bureau said the engagement provided valuable eyewitness accounts and insights into local transport operations, safety practices, and operational challenges.
It added that findings from the visit will support its ongoing investigation and guide future safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
Advertisement