By Efe Okonjo
The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has partnered with the Nigerian Navy and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to strengthen marine safety standards and reduce preventable accidents across the Niger Delta’s waterways.
In a statement released after a two-day Boat Safety, Security and Risk Management Training in Warri, PIND said the intervention was designed to improve safety practices among boat operators and jetty personnel from Delta, Bayelsa, and Ondo states as development activities expand into hard-to-reach riverine communities.
Protecting Lives on the Waterways
Speaking on behalf of PIND’s Executive Director, Col. Abdulfatai Mohammed (retd.) stressed that the initiative was about safeguarding lives and improving accountability among operators.
“This intervention is about protecting lives, both for those who work on the waterways and the communities we serve. By strengthening the skills, awareness, and accountability of boat operators, we are addressing one of the most critical risk points in riverine operations,” Mohammed said.
Training and Safety Protocols
The programme featured technical sessions, practical demonstrations, and simulation exercises covering marine safety protocols, emergency response, navigation risks, maritime security awareness, and incident reporting.
Participants also received training on professional conduct and conflict sensitivity to encourage safer engagement within riverine communities. Facilitators from the Nigerian Navy and NIWA guided participants using national maritime safety standards and operational procedures.
A representative of the Nigerian Navy emphasised that compliance with safety procedures would significantly reduce avoidable incidents on inland waterways.
“Safety on the waterways is a shared responsibility. Trainings like this strengthen preparedness, improve operational discipline, and support safer navigation across riverine communities,” the representative noted.
Standardising Operations
NIWA Area Manager, Engr. Rufus Ogbonlato, highlighted the importance of standardising operational procedures among boat operators.
“Regular training and adherence to safety procedures are essential to reducing marine accidents. We commend PIND for creating a platform that promotes professionalism and responsible marine transport operations,” Ogbonlato said.
Sustained Engagement
PIND added that it would continue engaging operators through follow-up activities and compliance monitoring to ensure safety standards become embedded in broader marine transport operations across the Niger Delta.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to improving operational safety and supporting safer access to communities in the region.