Niger: Gov Bago blames human negligence, overloading for rising boat accidents
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has raised concern about the increasing number of boat accidents across riverine communities in the state, describing the tragedies as painful and avoidable.
In a statement released by his media aide, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor said many of the mishaps happen because of human negligence.
He noted that some of these accidents are caused by overloading of boats and refusal to wear life jackets.
He stressed that such incidents could be reduced if passengers and operators follow safety rules on waterways.
The statement added that Governor Bago extended his condolences to families who lost loved ones in the recent Borgu accident and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured.
He said the state government shares in their grief and stands with them in this difficult time.
He also commended the quick response of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the National Inland Waterways Authority, community volunteers, and local divers who took part in rescue operations.
Niger: Gov Bago blames human negligence, overloading for rising boat accidents
