PC-NCG Calls For Passage Of Coast Guard Bill After Sokoto Boat Tragedy

The Provisional Committee of the Proposed Nigerian Coast Guard has called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill following the deadly boat accident in Gorau, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The committee says the tragedy, which reportedly claimed more than 50 lives, mostly children, highlights the urgent need for stronger safety and search-and-rescue mechanisms on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The accident occurred on Thursday, August 20, when an overloaded boat carrying farmers to rice fields capsized in Gorau. The National Inland Waterways Authority says about 40 bodies had been recovered as search operations continued.

Reacting to the incident, the committee described it as a national emergency that should not be ignored, arguing that millions of Nigerians depend on the country’s inland waterways and coastline for farming, fishing, transportation and trade.

It says Nigeria needs a dedicated agency with the training, equipment and mandate to enforce maritime safety regulations, patrol waterways and respond rapidly to emergencies.

The Nigerian Coast Guard Bill, which is awaiting Third Reading in the Senate, is expected to provide a framework for vessel safety checks, passenger limits, use of life jackets, waterway patrols and search-and-rescue operations in collaboration with existing agencies.

The committee is therefore urging the Senate and National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Bill and provide adequate funding for the proposed agency if it receives Presidential Assent. It maintains that safer waterways are essential to the development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.