The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has advised Nigerians to avoid boarding boats that require constant bailing of water for their safety.
Mr. Stanley Onuoha, NIWA’s Area Manager for Cross River and Ebonyi, issued this warning in an interview with reporters on Thursday in Calabar.
Speaking on waterway safety, Onuoha said passengers should take responsibility for their safety by inspecting boats before travel.
He explained that repeated scooping of water from a boat indicates it may be leaking.
“If you see people using a bailer to remove water, that’s a clear sign the boat is leaking,” he said.
He urged passengers to check the boat’s integrity, including seating and safety features.
Onuoha emphasized the importance of wearing safety jackets, warning that damaged jackets may fail during emergencies.
He added that jackets should fit properly to ensure effective flotation.
Passengers should also fill out manifests before departure for accountability in emergencies.
The official advised travelers to monitor weather conditions and avoid boats during bad weather, as storms can cause strong tidal waves that threaten small boats.
He recommended that waterway journeys be undertaken between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. for better visibility.
Onuoha mentioned that NIWA continues to sensitize riverine communities about safety precautions and that awareness campaigns and enforcement have improved waterway safety in Cross River.
