The Director General of the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Capt. Alex Badeh Wednesday led a team of investigators and senior officials of the Bureau on an on-the-spot safety assessment visit to Wadata, Benue State, following the recent boat accident that claimed 11 lives.
The visit, NSIB stated, formed part of its ongoing efforts to assess the safety conditions surrounding the accident, gather first-hand information, and engage with key stakeholders as part of its broader commitment to accident prevention and transport safety advocacy.
Upon arrival in Makurdi, the NSIB delegation was received by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Samuel Ode, who welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia.
The team subsequently met with the Governor after commissioning investigative activities and activating family assistance protocols for victims and families affected by the accident.
Badeh said: “The NSIB welcomes every opportunity to collaborate with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators in advancing transport safety.
“We remain committed to exploring practical avenues for institutionalising safer navigation on the River Benue and across Nigeria’s inland waterways.”
Addressing journalists during a media briefing, Badeh expressed condolences to the Government and people of Benue State, particularly the families of those who lost loved ones in the accident.
Badeh in a statement issued Wednesday described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the need for heightened safety consciousness and stronger compliance with safety measures across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
He added: ” Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many, and while each occurrence presents its own circumstances, many accidents can be prevented through greater safety awareness, responsible operational practices, and stronger collaboration among regulators, operators, and waterway users.
“We are here to listen, learn, and engage directly with those who operate and use these waterways. Safety is a shared responsibility, and sustained public education remains one of the most effective tools for reducing risks and preventing accidents on our waterways.”
During the meeting, Alia commended NSIB’s swift response.
He called for a stronger and more sustained NSIB presence in Benue State to support ongoing safety advocacy and risk-reduction initiatives along the River Benue.
The Governor also stressed the importance of strengthening public awareness, operational safety standards, and stakeholder engagement to improve safety outcomes across the state’s waterways.
Following the Government House engagement, the NSIB team proceeded to Wadata along the banks of the River Benue, where they met with community leaders, local residents, boat operators, and representatives of the Boat Operators Association.