The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called for stronger government control over boat operations, urging authorities to ensure that every boat operator is properly licensed, certified and in possession of the necessary documents before being allowed to operate.The agency also wants the use of life jackets to become compulsory for everyone travelling on boats, including operators and passengers.
NEMA says stricter enforcement of safety measures is necessary to prevent avoidable accidents and save lives during water-related emergencies.The concerns were raised during a one-day refresher training on Urban Search and Rescue organised by the NEMA Gombe Operations Office. The training brought together emergency management personnel and other key stakeholders to improve their preparedness, coordination and ability to respond effectively during disasters.Among those who participated were officials from NEMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Red Cross and other organisations involved in emergency response.
The programme focused on equipping participants with practical knowledge and skills needed during critical situations.Speaking at the training, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Gombe State Branch, Murtala Aliyu, said boat operators must meet established standards before being permitted to carry passengers.
He stressed that proper certification would help ensure that operators have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage boats safely.Aliyu also called for strict enforcement of rules governing the number of passengers allowed on boats and other safety requirements. He said authorities should make sure operators have valid licences, certificates and other relevant documents before they begin their operations.
He further insisted that life jackets should be worn by both passengers and boat operators before any vessel leaves the shore. According to him, consistent enforcement of the safety measures would reduce risks and strengthen preparedness for emergencies occurring on waterways.Head of the NEMA Gombe Operations Office, Hajiya Ummuna Ahmed, urged participants to put the lessons from the training into practice in their respective organisations. NEMA Chief Search and Rescue Officer Kabiru Idris also stressed that major emergencies require agencies to work together and share their personnel, expertise and equipment, with the ultimate goal of saving lives. The training ended with practical exercises and demonstrations at Dadin Kowa Dam.
