The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has commenced an investigation into the boat accident that claimed 11 lives in Benue State.
This was contained in a statement released on Thursday, signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the bureau, Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe.
The statement said the bureau’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., led a team of investigators on an on-the-spot safety assessment visit to Wadata along the River Benue
According to the statement, the visit, conducted on Wednesday, is part of the bureau’s efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, gather first-hand information from affected communities and stakeholders, and strengthen safety measures on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
NSIB further stated that Governor Hyacinth Alia commended the bureau’s swift response and called for a stronger and more sustained NSIB presence in the state to support safety advocacy and risk-reduction initiatives along the River Benue.
Responding, Badeh reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to partnering with state governments, local communities, operators and regulators to improve transportation safety nationwide.
“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.
Addressing journalists during a media briefing, the NSIB DG, Alex Badeh, expressed condolences to the Benue State Government and families of the victims, describing the accident as a painful reminder of the need for greater compliance with safety measures.
“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,” Badeh stated.
He explained that the visit was not only aimed at understanding the factors behind the accident but also at engaging directly with communities that rely on water transportation for their daily livelihoods.
He added, “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.”
The NSIB team later visited Wadata, where they met community leaders, residents, boat operators and representatives of the Boat Operators Association.
The investigators said the interactions provided them with valuable eyewitness accounts and insights into local transport operations, safety practices and operational challenges.
The bureau said findings from the visit would support its ongoing investigation and help shape future safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
