NSIB Blames Life Jacket Neglect, Unsafe Navigation for Boat Accidents
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has identified failure to use life jackets and unsafe navigation practices as major factors behind the recurring boat accidents recorded across Nigeria. The Director-General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., disclosed this during a virtual briefing with journalists, saying repeated safety violations remain a major concern in the maritime sector. Badeh explained that the situation differs from the aviation industry, where operators have generally acted on the bureau’s safety recommendations, helping to prevent accidents caused by previously identified problems. He said similar safety lapses continue to occur on Nigeria’s waterways, particularly the failure of passengers and boat operators to use life jackets. According to him, the persistent disregard for basic safety measures appears to be linked largely to established practices and attitudes within the maritime environment, although the bureau is working with stakeholders to change this. The NSIB boss also raised concerns about unsafe navigation during periods of poor visibility, including at night and around sunset. He said the bureau was engaging relevant authorities, particularly the National Inland Waterways Authority, to address the challenges and improve safety for people travelling on the waterways. The development comes amid growing concerns over the number of boat accidents and fatalities recorded across the country this year. Findings show that at least 70 boat accidents were recorded in Nigeria in 2026, resulting in no fewer than 80 deaths. The figures are unofficial but indicate the scale of the safety challenges confronting inland water transportation. January recorded the highest number of fatalities among the documented incidents, with 35 deaths. This was followed by February, which recorded 14 fatalities. Four deaths were documented in April, while June recorded 11 and July six.
The NSIB has stressed the need for greater compliance with safety recommendations and stronger cooperation among agencies and operators to prevent avoidable deaths. With repeated accidents linked to basic safety failures, the bureau’s warning highlights the importance of proper use of life jackets, safer navigation and greater adherence to established maritime safety standards. Authorities and operators are now expected to strengthen preventive measures to reduce the risk of further accidents on Nigeria’s waterways.
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