The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent boat accident that claimed several lives in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The Minister, in a condolence message, signed by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, extended the federal government’s sympathies to the victims and their families, describing the tragedy as both painful and avoidable.
The Minister expressed concern over the ongoing loss of lives in maritime accidents, urging States to phase out the use of wooden boats in favor of safer, modern alternatives for commercial transport.
The Minister described the tragedy as deeply painful and extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Federal Government to all those affected.
According to him, the structural weaknesses of wooden boats make them unsafe for modern commercial operations.
“The time has come for a decisive break from outdated practices. Wooden boats have served their time, but they cannot be the future of water transport in Nigeria. The tragic mishaps we continue to witness are a direct consequence of the continued reliance on unsafe vessels. We must now chart a safer course for our people,” Minister Oyetola declared.
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