The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy on Sunday urged state governments nationwide to ban the use of wooden boats for commercial water transportation.
The call follows a series of fatal accidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways, which authorities say are often linked to the use of unsafe and outdated vessels.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola said in a statement issued by his special adviser that many of the traditional wooden vessels still in use are poorly constructed.
He also added that the boats lack stability and safety features, and are prone to structural failure, especially when overloaded or exposed to harsh weather conditions.
“Wooden boats deteriorate quickly due to constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, leakages and eventual collapse.
They lack stability, are easily capsized, and often have no safety features,” Oyetola said.
“These recurring tragedies are painful and unacceptable, and they underscore the urgent need to address the root causes of waterway accidents in the country.”
Oyetola urged states to phase out wooden canoes and similar vessels in favor of fibre-reinforced plastic and aluminium boats, which he said are more durable, stable and aligned with global standards for inland and coastal waterway transport.
He described such investments as both life-saving and economically strategic.
Oyetola also called on waterway users to take personal responsibility by avoiding night travel when visibility is poor, insisting on wearing approved life jackets, and refusing to board overloaded or structurally compromised boats.
Tragic boat accidents have been reported across several states in recent years, with several incidents linked to the use of wooden boats that lack modern safety standards.
State governments, particularly those with large riverine populations, were urged to partner with the federal government and channel investments into modern watercraft to protect lives, improve transport reliability and support economic growth in riverine communities.
