Oyetola distribution 3,500 life jackets to waterways operations to curb mishaps
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Friday oversaw the distribution of 3,500 life jackets to residents of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, who rely on water transportation.
Oyetola said the distribution was part of a broader effort by the Federal Government to reduce the frequency of boat accidents across the country.
He acknowledged the importance of water transportation in the everyday lives of Nigerians, especially in coastal and riverine communities.
Describing the life jackets as long overdue, the minister said they reflected the government’s serious commitment to protecting lives and ensuring safety on the waterways.
“What we are doing here today is about saving lives. It is as simple as that,” he stated.
“With these life jackets, we are giving fishermen, traders, students, and transport workers the means to stay alive and travel more safely,” he added.
Similar distributions took place in Minna, Niger State, on 29 April, as part of the Ministry’s first phase of its safety intervention programme.
Oyetola said Bayelsa was central to this campaign, and he acknowledged Governor Douye Diri for aligning the state’s policies with the Federal Government’s marine economy objectives.
He applauded Bayelsa’s establishment of its own Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and its commitment to developing the Agge Deep Seaport.
Calling the project “transformative and visionary,” Oyetola said the seaport could reshape the economic fortunes of Bayelsa and the entire South-South region.
“The Agge Deep Seaport will be a major gateway for maritime trade. It will ease congestion at existing ports, attract investment, create jobs, and speed up development in the Niger Delta,” he said.
He urged passengers and boat operators to wear life jackets at all times.
“These jackets are not decorative—they’re lifesaving. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring safety on the water,” he said.
Governor Diri, speaking earlier, commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to fully realise Nigeria’s maritime potential.
He also thanked Oyetola for fostering collaboration with the state and stressed the importance of sustained public education on waterway safety.
“If we want to prevent the tragic loss of lives from boat accidents, then education on water safety must be continuous,” Diri said.
