The Federal Government through the ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has commenced the distribution of 3,500 life jackets to water transport users in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who led in the waterways awareness campaign, said the gesture is part of a nationwide initiative towards the continuation of the Federal Government’s concerted efforts to tackle recurring boat mishaps and ensure the safety of coastal and riverine communities.
Oyetola said water transportation plays a crucial role in the daily lives of Nigerians, particularly in coastal and riverine communities.
He described the life jacket distribution campaign as “strategic, proactive, and long overdue,” noting that it reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to preserving lives and promoting a safe marine environment.
“What we are doing here today is saving lives. It is that simple.”
“With these life jackets, we are empowering our waterways users, fishermen, traders, students, and transport operators with the basic tools to survive and be safe.” Oyetola said.
The distribution in Bayelsa is sequel to a similar flag-off in Minna, Niger State, on April 29, where Oyetola commenced the rollout of life jackets across 12 coastal and riverine states.
The programme is part of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s first phase of intervention.
According to Oyetola,the initiative is one of the most comprehensive federal responses to the growing safety concerns on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
Highlighting Bayelsa’s vast network of rivers, creeks, and its strategic maritime position, the Minister said the state was a natural priority in the campaign.
He also used the occasion to commend Governor Douye Diri for aligning with the Federal Government’s Marine and Blue Economy agenda.
Oyetola applauded Bayelsa’s creation of a state Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and commitment to the development of the Agge Deep Seaport— a project he described as “transformative and visionary,” capable of reshaping the economic landscape of not just Bayelsa, but the entire South-South region.
“The Agge Deep Seaport will serve as a major maritime gateway, facilitating international trade, reducing congestion at existing ports, creating jobs, boosting investments, and accelerating development in the Niger Delta.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, noted that the life jacket distribution was approved by the Minister as part of urgent relief measures to curb incidents on the nation’s waterways.
He echoed the Minister’s call for consistent use of safety gears on the waterways.
Also speaking, Governor, Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, expressed appreciation to the the Minister for considering the state as one of the inaugural states for the initiative.
He assured that Bayelsa government would continue to rely on the federal government’s support and expertise.
