By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has flagged off the distribution of 20 motorised boats to riverine communities, warning against overloading and other infractions on waterways.
The commissioning, held at the Kwalkwalawa River in Wamakko Local Government Area, was reported by Alu TV Nigeria. It reflected the state government’s commitment to curbing recurring water accidents, particularly during the rainy season.
Although Sokoto is largely semi-arid, many communities depend on water transportation, often relying on locally made canoes. These, however, have exposed passengers to frequent mishaps.
Governor Aliyu said the provision of the motorised boats followed recommendations from the 2024 flood disaster committee, which called for improved safety measures including life jackets and other relief materials.
At the launch, he assured residents of his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and reducing accidents on waterways. He warned captains of the boats, as well as local government chairmen in the benefiting areas, against overloading, which he described as the major cause of capsizing.
In his remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, said the initiative was part of ongoing efforts to enhance transportation in rural areas. Special Adviser to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Aminu Liman Bodinga, also commended the governor, describing the purchase as a lifesaving measure. He noted that the administration had earlier provided flood disaster relief materials valued at over ₦3 billion.
Representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto, Sarkin Adar Dundaye Muhammad Bello Yakubu, as well as officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority, praised the intervention. They described it as a step that would not only save lives but also boost economic activity and aid search and rescue operations.
Governor Aliyu and other top officials later boarded the boats as part of the symbolic commissioning exercise.
The benefiting local government areas include Shagari, Silame, Wurno, Rabah, Isa, Sabon Birni, Goronyo, Kebbe, Tambuwal, and Wamakko.
