The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta has partnered the Nigerian Navy and the National Inland Waterways Authority to train boat operators and jetty workers on safety and risk management across Niger Delta waterways.
The training, held in Warri, Delta State, brought together participants from Delta, Bayelsa, and Ondo states as part of efforts to reduce marine accidents and improve safety standards in riverine communities.
Speaking during the two-day Boat Safety, Security and Risk Management Training, PIND said the initiative became necessary due to increasing dependence on water transportation for development activities and access to hard-to-reach communities in the Niger Delta.
Representing the Executive Director of PIND, Mr Sam Ogbemi Daibo, the organisation’s Security Manager, Col. Abdulfatai Mohammed (retd.), said the intervention was aimed at protecting lives and improving accountability among boat operators.
“This intervention is about protecting lives — both for those who work on the waterways and the communities we serve. By strengthening the skills, awareness, and accountability of boat operators, we are addressing one of the most critical risk points in riverine operations,” he said.
The training featured practical demonstrations and simulation exercises on marine safety procedures, emergency response, navigation risks, maritime security awareness, and incident reporting.
Participants were also trained on professional conduct and conflict sensitivity in line with efforts to encourage responsible engagement within riverine communities.
Facilitators from the Nigerian Navy and NIWA delivered technical sessions based on national maritime safety standards and operational realities on inland waterways.
A representative of the Nigerian Navy commended the initiative, saying improved safety awareness among operators would help reduce avoidable accidents on waterways.
“Safety on the waterways is a shared responsibility. Trainings like this strengthen preparedness, improve operational discipline, and support safer navigation across riverine communities,” the representative said.
Also speaking, NIWA Area Manager, Engr. Rufus Ogbonlato, stressed the need for regular training and strict adherence to safety procedures among boat operators.
“Regular training and adherence to safety procedures are essential to reducing marine accidents. We commend PIND for creating a platform that promotes professionalism and responsible marine transport operations,” he said.
PIND said it would continue to engage operators through follow-up monitoring and compliance measures aimed at strengthening safety standards across the region’s waterways.
