The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an inquiry into a boat accident in Benue State that resulted in the deaths of 11 passengers.
The bureau said its investigation team has commenced efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify possible safety gaps that may have contributed to the tragedy.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the NSIB disclosed that its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., led investigators to Wadata, a community along the River Benue, for an initial assessment.
The visit, according to the bureau, was aimed at gathering first-hand information from residents, boat operators and other stakeholders while assessing safety conditions along the waterway.
The NSIB said the engagement formed part of broader efforts to improve safety standards on Nigeria’s inland waterways and prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
During the visit, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, praised the bureau’s prompt response and urged stronger collaboration to enhance water transportation safety in the state.
The governor also called for a sustained presence of the NSIB in Benue to support public awareness campaigns and risk reduction measures along the River Benue.
Badeh, while responding, said the bureau remained committed to working with state authorities, local communities, transport operators and regulatory agencies to improve safety practices across the country.
“The NSIB welcomes every opportunity to collaborate with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators in advancing transport safety. We remain committed to exploring practical avenues for institutionalising safer navigation on the River Benue and across Nigeria’s inland waterways,” he said.
The NSIB chief executive expressed sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives, describing the incident as a reminder of the need for improved compliance with safety regulations by water transport operators and users.
“Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many,” Badeh said.
He added that many waterway accidents could be avoided through increased safety awareness, responsible operations and stronger cooperation among relevant stakeholders.
The investigative team also held meetings with community leaders, residents, boat operators and members of the Boat Operators Association in Wadata, where they obtained accounts of the incident and information on existing operational challenges.
The bureau said details gathered from the field assessment would contribute to its final findings and guide recommendations for improving safety measures on inland waterways nationwide.
