- Calls on NIMASA, NIWA, NPA and multinational firms to support initiative
By Cliffsimeon Akalonu
The Association of Tourists Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), has called on federal and state governments as well as other stakeholders and philanthropists in the waterways industry to support it in raising awareness for safety on the waterways.
The association in a communiqué also said it wants to raise 10 million life jackets which will be distributed to all its members nationwide.
ATBOWATON’s National President Engr. Ganiyu Balogun Tarzan, who signed the communiqué, said these formed part of the decisions of members after the Federation Of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) Annual General Meeting, which held recently in Abuja.
Tarzan on behalf of his members asked for government incentives and grants via mass transit boats, building of new jetties nationwide, free tax on imported engines for commercial boats and floating of fuel filling stations etc.
He also urged both Federal and state governments to stop the issue of multiple taxation.
He said with the nation’s massive acquatic assets time has come for the establishment of Federal Ministry of Maritime Services, which would among others ensure the expansion and adequate funding of the nation’s waterways infrastructure.
He also urged the governments to aggressively pursue the cleaning of the waterways of all wrecks debris saying these are major causes of boat mishap on the waterways.
Balogun commended President Muhammadu Buhari administration for launching the Blue Water Project, saying that his association will be interested in collaboration with the government to ensure total safety on the inland waterways.
He therefore urged FTAN members and boat owners from all the riverine states, to embrace unity.
Balogun Tarzan, also implore all boat operators to give priority to safety of lives and properties of water users.
“Wear life jackets anytime you are travelling on the waters, avoid overloading and night traveling, make sure your boats are in serviceable condition before embarking on a journey, Tarzan warned”.