NIWA bans alcohol consumption during boat rides, issues new safety guidelines 

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has banned the consumption of alcohol and other prohibited substances before or during boat rides.

As part of safety and security alerts during and after the yuletide to prevent avoidable accidents.

In a statement released by NIWA management, the Authority highlighted the importance of adhering to the Transportation Code, 2023, which has been gazetted and will be strictly enforced to ensure safe water transportation.

The various guidelines outlined include directive to boat operators to avoid overloading their boats beyond approved limits and are required to provide lifejackets to passengers free of charge.

The statement also made it mandatory for passenger manifests to be properly filled and confirmed before departure, while a compulsory safety talk must be conducted before setting sail.

NIWA stressed that boat operations must not extend beyond 6:00 PM, and passengers are strongly advised against traveling on waterways at night.

In addition, NIWA warned against any activities that could destabilize boats while in motion and mandated all passengers to wear lifejackets while onboard. Assaulting or attacking NIWA officers or Water Marshals while they are performing their duties was also declared a punishable offense.

To ensure swift emergency responses, NIWA has placed its operational bases on high alert and has made emergency response lines – **07039748740** and **08059543364** – available to the public.

The Authority urged Nigerians to strictly comply with these safety regulations to prevent avoidable tragedies during the festive season. NIWA reiterated its commitment to maintaining safe and secure inland waterways for all users.