Security agencies boost collaboration on marine safety
The Nigerian Navy and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have strengthened their partnership to improve safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment during a training programme in Warri, Delta State.
The programme focused on reducing accidents and improving operational standards in riverine transport.
The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) organised the event.
Boat operators undergo safety and risk training
PIND held a two-day Boat Safety, Security and Risk Management Training.
Boat operators and jetty personnel attended from Delta, Bayelsa, and Ondo states.
The session addressed growing safety concerns in water transport.
It also aimed to improve professionalism in inland marine operations.
Development partners and security experts also participated.
PIND calls for stronger safety awareness
Security Manager, Col. Abdulfatai Mohammed (retd.), spoke on behalf of PIND’s Executive Director.
He said the programme focuses on saving lives in riverine communities.
He stressed the need for stronger awareness among boat operators.
According to him, better skills reduce risks on busy waterways.
He added that operators must take responsibility for safety compliance.
Navy and NIWA stress discipline and compliance
Facilitators from the Nigerian Navy and NIWA delivered technical and practical sessions.
They also conducted simulations based on national safety standards.
Commander Samuel Ateru of the Nigerian Navy said safety requires shared responsibility.
He noted that training improves discipline and emergency response.
NIWA Area Manager, Engr. Rufus Ogbonlato, also urged operators to follow safety rules.
He said regular training helps reduce avoidable accidents.
He praised PIND for promoting safer marine operations.
PIND to sustain post-training engagement
PIND said the initiative is part of broader efforts to improve waterways safety in the Niger Delta.
It added that it will continue monitoring operators after the training.
The organisation said follow-up engagement will support long-term compliance with safety standards.
