By Jummai Ishaku
Jalingo Taraba Nigeria – June 26, 2025
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has donated 1,000 life jackets to support inland water transport safety in Taraba State.
The donation was made in collaboration with the Taraba State Government during a handover ceremony held at the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Conference Hall in Jalingo.
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Speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by the Director of Marine and Consultation, Shetima Ussaini, said the gesture was aimed at safeguarding lives and property in riverine communities.
He said, “Providing life jackets is part of our effort to ensure safer water transport across the country, particularly in communities that rely heavily on waterways.”
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, who was represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Humanitarian Services and Regional Development, Hon. Savior Noku, commended the federal government and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for the intervention.
He urged community leaders to ensure that the life jackets reach the intended beneficiaries, warning against diversion or bias in the distribution process.
“The safety of our people remains a priority, and our administration is committed to protecting lives and property across all divides,” he said.
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Also speaking, the Managing Director of NIWA, Muhammad Nasir, warned that the use of life jackets was now compulsory for all boat users and passengers. He said defaulters would face the full wrath of the law.
On his part, Chairman of the Board Operators in Taraba State, Jidda Sulaiman, appreciated the support and appealed for further assistance, including the provision of boat engines and other operational tools.
