NSIB launches probe into Benue boat mishap

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has begun a formal investigation into the boat accident in Benue State that resulted in the deaths of 11 people.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the bureau’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe.

According to the statement, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., led a team of investigators to Wadata on the banks of River Benue for an on-site safety evaluation following the tragic incident.

The bureau explained that the visit, which took place on Wednesday, formed part of efforts to uncover the factors that led to the accident, obtain first-hand accounts from residents and relevant stakeholders, and enhance safety standards on inland waterways across the country.

NSIB noted that Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, praised the agency for its prompt intervention and urged it to maintain a stronger and more consistent presence in the state to promote safety awareness and reduce risks along the River Benue.

In response, Badeh reiterated the bureau’s readiness to work closely with state authorities, local communities, transport operators and regulatory agencies 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.

During a media briefing, Badeh extended condolences to the Benue State Government and the families of those who lost their lives, describing the tragedy as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations.

“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 said the purpose of the visit went beyond investigating the immediate cause of the accident, stressing the need to engage communities that depend heavily on water transportation for their daily activities.

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 delegation later proceeded to Wadata, where discussions were held with community leaders, residents, boat operators and officials of the Boat Operators Association.

Investigators stated that the engagements provided useful eyewitness testimonies and deeper insight into local water transport operations, existing safety procedures and operational difficulties.

The bureau added that information gathered during the visit would aid the ongoing investigation and contribute to future recommendations aimed at preventing similar accidents on Nigeria’s waterways.