Written By: Ahmed Rufa’i, in Dutse
The Open Government Partnership (OGP) Non-State Actors in Jigawa State have urged the state government to immediately roll out comprehensive water transport safety measures to stem the recurring boat accidents that have claimed scores of lives across riverine communities.
The group said the recent canoe tragedy at Yan Dutse Malamawa, which reportedly left more than 40 people dead, underscores the need for swift implementation of life-saving interventions already captured in the state’s 2026 budget.
In a statement signed by the Jigawa State Co-Chair of OGP Non-State Actors, Comrade Isah Mustapha, the organisation commended the government for approving ₦400 million for the procurement of speed boats through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and ₦30 million for life-saving equipment and emergency response gadgets.
It, however, warned that the allocations would have little impact unless translated into action before the peak of the flooding season.
“The recurring boat mishaps have become a tragic annual occurrence in many riverine communities. Immediate implementation of the approved safety measures is critical to preventing further loss of innocent lives,” the statement said.
The group called on the Jigawa State Executive Council to direct the immediate procurement and deployment of speed boats, life jackets and rescue equipment to vulnerable communities across the state.
It also urged the government to enforce water transport safety regulations by sanctioning operators who overload boats or violate established safety standards.
According to the OGP, sustained public awareness campaigns on the dangers of overloading, travelling without life jackets and navigating waterways during adverse weather conditions should be prioritised to reduce fatalities.
The organisation further advocated the establishment of community-based water transport safety committees to promote compliance with safety regulations, coordinate emergency response and strengthen local awareness efforts.
While sympathising with the families of those who lost their loved ones in the Malamawa canoe disaster, the OGP extended its condolences to the Jigawa State Government and the people of the state, praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and speedy recovery for those injured.
The organisation maintained that protecting citizens through timely implementation of approved public safety projects is in line with the principles of transparency, accountability and responsive governance championed by the Open Government Partnership.
