JUST IN: President Tinubu Reacts to Boat Accidents in Niger, Adamawa States

President Bola Tinubu has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the recent tragic boat accidents in Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State and Gurin village in Fufore LGA of Adamawa State. The President expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, including innocent children, and he extended his sympathies to the grieving families and communities.

President Tinubu also wished a swift recovery to those who sustained injuries in these unfortunate incidents. He has issued directives for various government agencies, such as law enforcement, maritime safety, and transportation safety authorities, to collaborate closely to uncover the root causes of these accidents.

Additionally, the President has instructed a comprehensive evaluation of safety measures and the strict enforcement of boating laws across the country.

The first of these tragic accidents occurred on the morning of Sunday, September 10, 2023, in Mokwa LGA of Niger State, resulting in the unfortunate loss of approximately 28 lives when a passenger boat capsized. The second incident took place in Gurin village in Fufore LGA of Adamawa State the following Monday, claiming the lives of about 11 individuals as a boat carrying passengers and livestock capsized.

The full statement by the president reads:

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS VICTIMS OF BOAT ACCIDENTS IN NIGER, ADAMAWA STATES

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the recent boat mishaps in Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State and Gurin village, in Fufore LGA of Adamawa State, which tragically claimed many lives, including several children.

While expressing solidarity with the governments and people of Niger and Adamawa States as they swiftly mobilized emergency response teams and volunteers to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the incidents, the President wishes a most speedy recovery to those who were injured.

Furthermore, President Tinubu demands a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the recurring tragedy of fatal boat incidents across the nation.

The President directs various government agencies, including law enforcement, maritime safety and transportation safety authorities to collaborate closely in identifying the root causes of these unfortunate and preventable disasters.

President Tinubu underscores his commitment to holding government agencies accountable for any regulatory or safety lapses and further instructs a comprehensive review of safety measures and a strict enforcement of existing laws on boating activities in the country.

The President assures the affected families and communities of government’s continued support and his commitment to the prevention of such tragic incidents from occurring in the future.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)