BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., on Wednesday led a team of investigators and senior officials to Wadata in Benue State following a boat accident that claimed 11 lives.
The visit was part of the Bureau’s on-the-spot safety assessment aimed at examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, gathering first-hand information, and engaging stakeholders on improving inland water transport safety across the country.
Upon arrival in Makurdi, the NSIB delegation was received by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Samuel Ode, who welcomed the team on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The team later met with the governor after commencing investigative activities and activating family assistance support for victims and their relatives.
Governor Alia commended the swift response of the NSIB and called for a stronger institutional presence of the agency in Benue State to enhance safety monitoring and risk reduction along the River Benue.
He stressed the need for improved public awareness, stricter operational standards, and deeper stakeholder engagement to reduce recurring waterway accidents in the state.
Responding, Captain Badeh welcomed the request and reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to working closely with state governments and relevant stakeholders to improve transport safety.
“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,” he said.
Speaking during a media briefing, the NSIB boss expressed condolences to the government and people of Benue State, particularly the families of those who lost loved ones in the accident.
He described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the urgent need for stronger safety compliance and public awareness across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
“Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many,” he said.
He added that while accident circumstances may differ, many waterway incidents are preventable through improved safety practices and stronger regulatory collaboration.
Captain Badeh said the mission was not only to investigate the incident but also to strengthen engagement with communities that depend heavily on water transportation for daily movement and livelihood.
“We are here to listen, learn, and engage directly with those who operate and use these waterways. Safety is a shared responsibility,” he said, noting that public education remains key to reducing risks on inland waterways.
Following engagements at the Government House, the NSIB team visited Wadata along the River Benue, where they met with community leaders, residents, boat operators, and representatives of the Boat Operators Association.
The interactions provided investigators with eyewitness accounts of the accident and insights into operational practices, safety challenges, and enforcement gaps in the area’s water transport system.
According to the Bureau, information gathered from the visit will support ongoing investigations and help determine contributing factors to the accident. It will also guide future safety recommendations aimed at improving inland waterway operations nationwide.
NSIB reiterated its commitment to strengthening transport safety through independent investigations, safety advocacy, and policy recommendations designed to prevent future occurrences.
Further updates are expected as investigations progress.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
