By SN24.com 
By 
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has berated the recent boats mishaps in Lagos and Yobe States even as it preaches safety cross inland waterways in Nigeria.
While expressing its sympathy, the authority underscored the need for safety across inland waterways in Nigeria.
The authority expressed its condolences in a statement in Lokoja, by Assistant General Manager Corporate Affairs of NIWA, Mr Suleiman Makama.
He said that NIWA noted with discomfort, the unfortunate boat mishaps in both states, after an extensive accident-free period on the inland waterways.
“The authority commiserates with the families of the departed on the unfortunate accidents.
“NIWA shares in their grief and remain committed to intensify our surveillance activities and safety campaigns for safer waterways,” he said
He disclosed that in response to the mishaps, the authority has mobilised all relevant facilities in conjunction with other relevant agencies towards a successful rescue efforts in Yobe state.
Consequently, Makama urged waterways users to adhere strictly to safety guidelines at all times, in order to avoid such unfortunate incidences.
“It is important to remind Nigerians that the ban on night sailing is still in force; no passenger boat is permitted to be on the inland waterways beyond 6.00 p.m.
“It’s an offence to be on the inland waters without putting on the standard lifejacket; All boat operators are equally reminded to avoid overspeeding and overloading their boats at all times,” he said
According to him, NIWA has commenced investigations into the cause of the accidents, in collaboration with sister agencies.
“Consequently, appropriate action shall be taken promptly by the authority after the findings, ” he said